Column: Citizens have a right to electronic records
Computers have made examining government records easier than ever. The smallest townships across Wisconsin post the meeting agendas and minutes online. And websites for government agencies at all levels contain an enormous amount of other information. Electronic records are also…
Nominations sought for 2018 Opee Awards
The Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council, a nonprofit group that works to protect access to public meetings and records, is now accepting nominations for its annual Openness in Government Awards, or Opees. Awards are given in six categories: Popee (political…
Broadcaster testifies in favor of tax exemption bill
A Mauston radio broadcaster testified on Dec. 12 in front of a Wisconsin State Senate committee in support of a bill that would provide a sales and use tax exemption for commercial radio and TV stations. Jim Murphy owns WRJC-AM/FM…
Majority of House of Representatives backs Local Radio Freedom Act
A majority of the House of Representatives now supports the Local Radio Freedom Act after a bipartisan group of five House members signed a resolution opposing “any new performance fee, tax, royalty, or other charge” on local broadcast radio stations….
FCC approves new ownership rules, ATSC 3.0
The FCC on Thursday approved new ownership rules that would allow companies to own a television station and newspaper or television station and radio station in the same market. The rule would also allow the FCC to waive on a…
Broadcasters call on peers to join State Legislative Day
Wisconsin broadcasters who have participated in State Legislative Day are calling on their peers to join them for calls on the State Capitol on Jan. 31. A video published this week explains why it’s important for broadcasters to visit their…
Senate version of tax reform preserves ad tax deductibility
The U.S. Senate version of a tax reform bill released this week preserves the deductibility of business advertising expenses. “Local broadcasters support tax reform that promotes economic growth and job creation, and it is undeniable that advertising is a stimulus…
Assembly committee approves police body camera bill
The Wisconsin State Assembly’s Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee voted Tuesday to send a bill to the floor that addressed issues surrounding the use of police body cameras. The committee voted along party lines. The bill passed 8-4. Among…
Concerns raised about drone restrictions for newsrooms
Multiple layers of regulations could affect the ability of newsrooms to use drones for news gathering, according to a report presented to the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council. Wisconsin State Journal photojournalist Michel King spoke to the council Oct. 26…
