A Plan to Save Our Free Press

[Commentary] America is losing its newspaper industry. While the economy has caused an immediate problem, the business model for newspapers, based on circulation and advertising revenue, is broken. That decline is a harbinger of tragedy for communities nationwide and for our democracy. The Newspaper Revitalization Act aims to help the disappearing community and metropolitan papers by allowing them to become nonprofit organizations. The goal is to save local coverage by reporters who know their communities, work their beats and dig up the stories that are important to our daily lives. Today, newspapers do that job; all other outlets -- TV, radio, blogs -- feed off that base. The bill would allow newspapers -- if they choose -- to operate under 501(c)(3) status for educational purposes, similar to public broadcasters. Under this arrangement, newspapers would not be allowed to make political endorsements but would be permitted to freely report on all issues, including political campaigns. They would be able to editorialize and take positions on issues affecting their communities. Advertising and subscription revenue would be tax-exempt, and contributions to support coverage or operations could be tax-deductible. The measure is targeted at local newspapers serving communities, not large newspaper conglomerates. Converting to nonprofit status may not be the optimal choice for some newspapers -- particularly those that rely on a significant revenue stream -- but this legislation would provide an alternative business model that could help many newspapers keep operating. I am confident that citizens or foundations in communities across the nation would be willing to step in and preserve their local papers. Newspapers provide a vital service. It is in the interest of our nation and good governance that we ensure their survival.