(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost today announced an agreement with Nexstar Media Group that protects the independence of local journalism and ensures that Ohioans have a choice for local news and programming.
“Journalistic independence is a cornerstone principle of our democracy,” Yost said. “I’m pleased that Nexstar has committed to upholding local news standards without going to court.”
The memorandum of understanding concerns Nexstar’s $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, a sale that a federal judge placed on hold in April. Under the deal, Nexstar would acquire several stations in Ohio.
Today’s agreement secures two key commitments from Nexstar regarding its management of WBNS-TV in Columbus and WKYC-TV in Cleveland – the two markets where the company would own dual stations following the merger.
First, the company agrees to respect the editorial, personnel and production independence at the two stations. Second, the company will maintain separate news teams at each station and preserve existing levels of local programming.
The Attorney General’s Office will monitor Nexstar’s compliance with the agreement.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Dominic Binkley: 614-728-4127
-30-