"The panel was scheduled to hear from Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., who has proposed allowing newspapers to choose tax-exempt status and operate as nonprofits similar to public broadcasting stations.
Papers would no longer be able to make political endorsements, but could report on all issues including political campaigns. Advertising and subscription revenue would be tax-exempt, and contributions to support coverage could be tax deductible under Cardin's plan.
Cardin has said his bill is aimed at preserving local papers, not large newspaper conglomerates."
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this info was in:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gU_ib8va3SFreAiKqPuVC2C3zkgwD980RDKG1Kerry: Newspapers look like an endangered species