We’re Fighting for Local Media Funding. Join Us!
Support Local Journalism Support Community Media
Advocate for TCMedia's Inclusion in SB 5400
Washington State Senate Bill SB 5400 (2025-26): “Supporting Local News Journalism” is a promising step toward securing funding and resources for trusted, community-focused journalism in Washington.
But there’s a gap:
PEG (Public, Educational, and Government access) stations like TCMedia are not currently guaranteed inclusion.
Why it Matters
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PEG stations like TCMedia serve as local news hubs, especially where traditional outlets have disappeared.
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We spotlight underserved stories and provide free civic access to government proceedings, education, and community voices.
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Excluding community media centers from SB 5400 means vital, local journalism infrastructure will continue to struggle, despite being on the frontlines of public service.
Take Action
Help us urge lawmakers to amend SB 5400 to include PEG stations like TCMedia in its funding efforts.
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Contact your state senator and representative
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Ask them to support an amendment to SB 5400 that includes PEG stations
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Tell them: “Community media is local journalism.”
Messages You Can Send
I'm a constituent and supporter of local journalism and Thurston Community Media (TCMedia). I'm writing to urge you to amend SB 5400 to include PEG (Public, Educational, and Government access) media centers like TCMedia in the funding and support structure.
TCMedia is a vital part of our local news ecosystem offering community reporting, civic transparency, education, and access to underserved voices. Community media is local journalism. Please ensure SB 5400 reflects that.