SPRINGFIELD – A new law championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman will combat Illinois’ shrinking newsrooms and support aspiring journalists.

“Local journalism is the heartbeat of our communities, shining a light on local issues in a way corporate media isn’t interested in,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By requiring notice prior to the sale of a local news organization, we are creating an opportunity to protect the livelihoods of employees and preserving the continuity of community-focused journalism.”

To address the steady decline of local journalism, Stadelman’s law requires local news organizations to notify its employees and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity 120 days before the organization is sold. The goal is to give other businesses, newspapers and nonprofits the opportunity to acquire the publication, preserving local journalism and preventing its sale to a private equity firm.

Additionally, the law establishes the Journalism Student Scholarship Program to support students who are pursuing careers in Illinois journalism. Students have the opportunity to apply if they are an Illinois resident, attending an in-state college, pursuing a degree that will lead to a career in journalism or a similar field, and agree to work in the state for two years following their graduation.

“Scholarships for aspiring journalism students not only open the doors for those passionate about storytelling but also safeguard the future of our state’s newsrooms,” Stadelman said. “By nurturing this new talent, we are ensuring our communities remain well-informed through high-quality, local reporting.”

Both portions of this legislation build upon the payroll tax credits for local journalists included in the state’s budget initiated by Stadelman with the continued goal of reviving Illinois' declining journalism industry.

Senate Bill 3592 was signed into law Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2025.