To the editor: The function of presidency is to not choose winners and losers in journalism, which is exactly why the California Civic Media Program was designed with unbiased safeguards from the outset (“Be certain that California’s journalism fund helps key gamers,” Could 18). Funding selections will finally be made by an unbiased third-party administrator, not by state officers or political appointees.
This system additionally adopted the Legislature’s route within the creation of a nine-member advisory committee, which has constantly emphasised increasing entry to native, ethnic and neighborhood media, significantly in underserved communities and areas with restricted native information protection — targets enshrined in this system’s statute. Moreover, it says the advisory board “could take into account” awarding funds primarily based on the variety of journalists a company employs — however on no account requires it.
The aim of the California Civic Media Program was by no means merely to protect the state’s largest publishers, though they’re essential. It was to assist shut info gaps, strengthen newsroom sustainability and guarantee extra Californians have entry to correct, well-sourced native reporting that empowers participation in civic life and builds stronger communities throughout the state. At a time when native journalism is struggling nationwide, California is working arduous to assist maintain and strengthen it for future generations.
Dee Dee Myers, Sacramento
This author is director of the Governor’s Workplace of Enterprise and Financial Growth.
