Latino Media Collaborative meets with media partners and state legislators to support AB 1511

On Tuesday, the Latino Media Collaborative (LMC) held a luncheon with media partners and staff from various state agencies to discuss the need to enhance media outreach to traditionally underserved communities via AB 1511.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1511 into law last year, mandating that state agencies develop plans to increase their advertising spending in media outlets serving California's diverse populations. 

LMC stated they support a budget allocation of 40% to be specifically directed to ethnic and community media outlets. A letter supporting the 40% has been signed by several legislators and LMC continues to garner additional support leading up to the May Budget Revision next month.

The luncheon happened as state officials edge closer to a July 1st deadline issued under AB 1511, which requires them to develop plans for increasing expenditures directed to ethnic media outlets and improve outreach to underserved populations.

Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) kicked off the proceeding with remarks that emphasized the crucial role ethnic media outlets play in acting as trusted members for their communities. 

A panel made up of several industry leaders and former Assemblymember Miguel Santiago, who authored AB 1511, spoke during the luncheon.

The law requires agencies to annually report on their progress to ensure transparency and accountability. The bill was sponsored by the Latino Media Collaborative. The Latino Media Collaborative is publisher of CALÓ News.