LOCAL Act could boost small business advertising in Freeport

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The Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally Act would provide small businesses with up to $4,000 for marketing in community media.

Small businesses in Freeport might soon be receiving some much-needed financial relief.

Earlier this month, State Sen. Monica R. Martinez and Assemblywoman Jen Lunsford introduced the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally Act, which would establish a new $10 million tax credit for small businesses advertising in local media outlets.

The LOCAL Act aims to support the marketing needs of small businesses — especially those that are minority-, woman- or veteran-owned, or that have 10 employees or fewer — while keeping investment in the media outlets that New Yorkers rely on everyday for critical information.

“The LOCAL Act is built upon one key principle - that knowledge is power,” said Legislator Seth Koslow about the proposed bill. “Not only will this proposal strengthen the diverse small businesses that power Nassau County’s economy, it will also allow media outlets to fulfill their essential role as a pillar of American democracy.”

“This legislation fosters a cycle of growth, allowing small businesses to expand their reach while simultaneously supporting the media outlets that keep New Yorkers informed and engaged,” Martinez, the bill’s senate sponsor, said.

The legislation has already garnered staunch support from the media and business community alike. Led by The Empire State Local News Coalition, which is composed of over 200 local newspapers across New York — including the Long Island Herald — the bill has received praise from business trade groups throughout the state, which view the proposal as a solution to increase investment in small businesses and sustain local news organizations.

“The LOCAL Act is a win-win-win for local businesses, local news, and local communities,” Zachary Richner, founding member of the Empire State Local News Coalition, said. “These institutions are intricately connected and work together to create the vibrant communities that New Yorkers love.”

The bill comes as the 2025 Legislative Session kicks off and negotiations begin on the State’s next fiscal year budget, which must be passed by both the Senate and Assembly and signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul by April 1. The tax credit would need to be included in the State’s final spending plan.

“The LOCAL Act is about more than just advertising — it’s about investing in the economic health of our local communities and investing in the kind of local journalism that we need now more than ever,” Martinez’ fellow bill sponsor, Lunsford, said.

Under the LOCAL Act, a minority-, woman- or veteran-owned business, as well as any business with 10 employees or fewer, would be eligible to receive a refundable tax credit of 80 percent of its first $5,000 of local advertising for a maximum credit of $4,000 per year. The program would be capped at $10 million annually.

“Our small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and the LOCAL Act is a step in the right direction to ensure they thrive,” said State Assemblyman Noah Burroughs. “This is an investment in both our economy and the flow of critical information that keeps communities like Freeport connected and resilient.”

“We are excited to support local businesses,” said Stuart Richner, president of Richner Communications Inc. “By making advertising more accessible and affordable, the LOCAL Act will empower Long Island’s small businesses to reach new customers while ensuring that our local media outlets continue to connect and inform our residents.”