Members of the League of Women Voters at their national convention adopted a new national position, following a two-year study initiated by the League of Women Voters of Washington State.

In brief, the position states “it is the responsibility of the government to provide support for conditions under which credible local journalism can survive and thrive.” The definition of “local” and “credible” included “accurate, in-depth coverage of government entities, including but not limited to, city councils, county councils, county board of commissioners, health departments, schools and school boards.”

Because it is vital to democracy, the League of Women Voters of Chautauqua County proudly supports this position to protect against news deserts which have been experienced and to ensure the survival and prosperity of credible local journalism.

House Bill 2605 (from 2022) establishes recommendations for potential policy changes or funding for the industry. Many citizens rely on news outlets for legal notices and all other community information. We look forward to this report.

To quote the new national position of our civic organization, the LWV “supports efforts to ensure everyone has access to information necessary to casting an informed ballot and that credible local news sources are integral to this pursuit. Or more simply, as expressed above “local news = democracy.”

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy.

Marcia Merrins serves as a board member for the League of Women Voters of Chautauqua County.