E164: Groundbreaking Local News Legislation with Steve Waldman

E164: Groundbreaking Local News Legislation with Steve Waldman

Author: MDDC Press Association April 29, 2026 Duration: 1:05:30

In this episode, Rebecca talks with Steve Waldman of Rebuild Local News about emerging legislation designed to support and sustain local journalism. Steve explains the policy ideas gaining traction at both the state and federal levels, including tax credits, incentives, and other approaches aimed at strengthening newsroom capacity and rebuilding local coverage.

They discuss how these proposals are structured to support publishers, journalists, and communities while maintaining editorial independence, as well as the challenges of advancing policy in a rapidly changing media landscape. Steve also shares insights on what effective legislation could look like in practice and why now is a critical moment for rethinking how local news is funded and supported.


Ever wonder how a major local story really came together, or what a reporter was thinking when they asked that tough question? Five Dubs Podcast pulls back the curtain on the newsrooms across Maryland, Delaware, and Washington D.C. Hosts Rebecca Snyder and Kevin Berrier, through the MDDC Press Association, sit down with the journalists themselves to explore the how and why behind the headlines you read each day. This isn't just a recap of the news; it's a conversation about the process, the challenges, and the sometimes surprising human stories that unfold during the pursuit of a story. In each episode, you'll hear firsthand accounts of what it takes to cover communities in this dynamic region, from the initial tip to the published piece. The Five Dubs Podcast offers a unique, insider perspective on the function and future of local media, making the landscape of regional journalism more accessible and understandable. It’s for anyone curious about the mechanics of news gathering and the people dedicated to telling our local stories.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Five Dubs Podcast
Podcast Episodes
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