Failed bill proposed grants for Wisconsin local journalism projects

A board attached to the University of Wisconsin System would form and oversee a nonprofit that runs a grant program. The local media members must represent nonprofit and for-profit news providers, including print, online or new media, radio, and television. The board would have four university representatives, five local media representatives, and two public members, appointed as specified in the bill. The board would provide the nonprofit with money from the bill’s appropriation for grants and operating costs. Board members would serve four-year terms, with no more than two terms; some members would serve initial six-year terms.

The nonprofit would award grants for Wisconsin local journalism and media projects and prioritize communities underserved by local news. Grants would support projects in Wisconsin that address communities’ information needs, media literacy, civic engagement, or access to local journalism. Applications must explain how a project serves Wisconsin’s civic information needs and gives underserved residents media skills or access to local journalism. Recipients must agree in writing to remain independent from influence by the state, institutions, and other funders related to the grant. At least 30 percent of all grant money must go to off-campus partners in rural communities. The bill sets no start or end date for the grant program.

The board would report each year to the governor and legislative committees on grant spending and the program’s work. The report would cover money provided to the nonprofit, how it was spent, and how it advanced the goal of a more informed and engaged public. The report would also summarize data gathered about populations and communities underserved by local news. The board would submit the report annually.