**Kuster’s full remarks are available HERE**

Washington, D.C. — Yesterday, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) highlighted the vital role that local broadcast news and journalism play in our country and communities during an Energy and Commerce Communications & Technology Subcommittee hearing. During her remarks, Kuster spoke about the ongoing blackout of WMUR for DISH customers across New Hampshire and the importance of keeping local broadcasting accessible and operational for all.

“From school closures to town updates, breaking news, and weather reports, local news outlets keep people informed about what’s happening in their communities,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “In the new video-first media environment, these outlets face new challenges to stay in business and reach interested consumers. We need to make it easier for trusted local news organizations to do the important work of informing the public and ensure everyone can access local news and reporting. Thank you to the broadcasters and leaders who joined us today to talk about these issues and more and what the future holds for local journalism.”

Kuster is a fierce advocate for local journalism and ensuring the freedom of the press. She co-sponsored the Local Journalism Sustainability Act, legislation to ensure financial viability remains possible for local news in newspapers, in digital-only publications, and on television and radio stations through a series of tax credits.

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