Oregon enacts SB 686 to support digital journalism compensation and standards

On January 17, 2025, the Oregon State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 686, a significant piece of legislation aimed at bolstering the financial sustainability of digital journalism in the state. As traditional media faces increasing challenges from digital platforms, this bill seeks to create a framework for compensating digital journalism providers, ensuring they can continue to deliver essential news coverage to Oregon residents.

The core provision of SB 686 mandates that covered platforms—such as social media companies and search engines—must pay a specified annual fee to digital journalism providers for access to their content. This fee will be adjusted annually for inflation, reflecting the economic realities faced by these providers. The bill outlines that at least one percent of the total compensation must be allocated to smaller journalism entities and freelancers, promoting a more equitable distribution of resources within the industry.

One of the notable aspects of the bill is its definition of eligible digital journalism providers. To qualify, organizations must meet certain criteria, including generating a minimum annual revenue of $100,000, having a significant portion of their content focused on public interest topics, and not being controlled by foreign entities or terrorist organizations. This provision aims to ensure that the support goes to legitimate, locally-focused journalism efforts.

The introduction of SB 686 has sparked discussions among lawmakers, media professionals, and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect local journalism, which plays a critical role in informing communities and holding power to account. They emphasize that without financial support, many small news organizations may struggle to survive in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.

However, the bill has also faced criticism. Some opponents express concerns about the potential for overreach and the implications of government involvement in media funding. They argue that such measures could inadvertently stifle journalistic independence or lead to a reliance on government support, which may compromise editorial integrity.

The implications of SB 686 extend beyond the immediate financial support for journalism. By addressing the economic challenges faced by news organizations, the bill could help preserve a diverse media landscape in Oregon, which is vital for a healthy democracy. Experts suggest that if successful, this model could inspire similar legislative efforts in other states grappling with the decline of local news.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and any amendments that may arise. The outcome of SB 686 could set a precedent for how digital journalism is funded and supported in the future, making it a pivotal moment for the media landscape in Oregon and potentially beyond.