Governor Phil Scott Signs Executive Order to 'Buy Local' in Support of Local Media

Montpelier, Vt. - Governor Phil Scott today signed Executive Order 06-26, "Local Media Considerations in State Marketing and Advertising Purchasing," which was developed in partnership with the Vermont Journalism Coalition and the Vermont Association of Broadcasters.

The State of Vermont invests in advertising and paid media campaigns to make sure Vermonters are aware of programs and services, deliver messages about health and safety, promote use of State assets like State Parks, generate revenue through lottery and liquor proceeds, and more. Under Executive Order 06-26, the Governor has directed State entities to ensure these paid media purchases include local media and broadcast outlets whenever feasible and in the best interest of the state.

"I've always been a supporter of 'buying local' and that's just as important for local newspapers and stations, as it is for our local hardware stores or farms," said Governor Scott. "We're fortunate in Vermont to have regional newspapers and broadcasters who still serve their communities and play a vital role in reaching Vermonters - especially in our rural towns. It's important that we don't forget these channels as we're trying to reach all Vermonters."

The Order also directs an effort to identify a process to assess state spending on paid media across all agencies and departments. This initiative will provide more insight into the investment the state already makes in local media, and how this Executive Order affects that investment.

"We are lucky to still have around 50 active local news organizations in our state. Advertising with them is a smart way to reach Vermonters but also helps sustain these essential community resources," said Kristen Fountain, interim coordinator for the Vermont Journalism Coalition. "We're thankful for the recognition and support."

"Vermont's local radio and television stations are the voices and faces of the regions they serve," said Wendy Mays, executive director of the Vermont Association of Broadcasters. "We're thrilled to see all broadcast stations included in this executive order, and we thank Governor Scott for his leadership."

Governor Scott signed Executive Order 06-26, which can be found on the Governor's website . It became effective upon signature, and the State's Communications and Marketing Office is responsible for implementation.

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