The owner of Oregon's Lookout Eugene-Springfield argues against Senate Bill 686, which would require tech companies to compensate local news. This opposition stems from concerns of losing visibility on major platforms like Google and Meta if the bill is passed. The article emphasizes that Oregon is at a crucial point for rethinking support for local journalism, calling for a more constructive approach that not only prevents harm but enriches civic information efforts, with the potential for a replicable template while acknowledging unique regional conditions.
"First, do no harm." The risk of losing visibility on platforms like Facebook and Google, essential for information access, outweighs potential funding gains for local news.
The conversation sparked by Senate Bill 686 challenges the future of journalism, democracy, and public trust, offering an opportunity to strengthen civic life.
This moment isnât just about legislation; itâs an opportunity to build a civic information infrastructure that not only prevents harm but also fosters civic engagement.
Oregon's media landscape, with fewer hedge fund-owned outlets, presents unique conditions that could allow the state's approach to journalism to serve as a national template.
Collection
[
|
...
]