A resolution designating April 2022 as "Preserving and Protecting Local News Month" and recognizing the importance and significance of local news.

Bill 117 S.Res. 596, also known as the resolution designating April 2022 as "Preserving and Protecting Local News Month," aims to recognize the importance and significance of local news in communities across the United States. The resolution highlights the vital role that local news plays in informing citizens, promoting transparency, and holding government officials accountable.

The resolution emphasizes the challenges facing local news outlets, including declining revenues, layoffs, and closures. It calls on Congress to support policies that preserve and protect local news, such as promoting diversity in media ownership, investing in journalism education and training, and providing financial assistance to struggling news organizations.

By designating April 2022 as "Preserving and Protecting Local News Month," the resolution seeks to raise awareness about the critical role that local news plays in our democracy and encourage individuals to support their local news outlets. It underscores the importance of a free and independent press in ensuring a well-informed citizenry and a healthy democracy. Overall, Bill 117 S.Res. 596 is a bipartisan effort to recognize and support the vital work of local news organizations and to advocate for policies that will help sustain and strengthen local journalism in the United States.