California Bill Proposes Tax Credit for Local News Outlets
Assembly Bill 2222 (AB 2222) requires the signature of the California Governor. The bill proposes to establish a refundable journalist employment tax credit aimed at supporting local news outlets and community coverage throughout California. Funding for this initiative would come…

Chico Redding, CA, September 25, 2026 —
California lawmakers are considering Assembly Bill 2222 (AB 2222), a legislative proposal aimed at bolstering local journalism across the state. The bill, which is currently awaiting the signature of the California Governor, seeks to establish a new refundable journalist employment tax credit.
The primary objective of AB 2222 is to provide financial support to local news organizations and enhance community coverage. If enacted, the tax credit is intended to assist these outlets in sustaining their operations and reporting on local matters that are vital to residents.
Funding for this initiative is proposed through changes to California’s tax code concerning executive compensation. Specifically, the bill suggests aligning the state’s rules for tax deductions on executive pay exceeding $1 million with existing federal regulations. This adjustment in tax policy is projected to generate the necessary revenue for the journalist employment tax credit.
The specifics regarding the exact amount of the tax credit, eligibility criteria for news outlets, and the precise timeline for implementation are not detailed in the current summary. Similarly, the estimated total funding generated by the executive compensation rule alignment was not provided. The bill’s ultimate passage and implementation depend on the Governor’s approval.
Story summarized from the original created by admin on chicosol.org, see more information here.
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