What Do We Do When Our Newspaper Closes?

Learn the criteria for a qualified newspaper and what to do if you don’t have one in your area.

Recently, headlines announced more local newspapers closing shop across Minnesota. Providing information to residents and posting legal notices are still necessary functions of government that are tied to newspapers.

When a city is faced with a local newspaper closing, there are some things to consider. First, there is a long list of requirements to be a qualified newspaper that can be found in Minnesota Statutes, section 331A.02, subdivision 1(a)-(j). These requirements include that a paper must have a certain circulation size, that it’s published at least twice per month, has space devoted to news of local interest, and it’s available for in the circulation area.

Next, Minnesota Statutes, section 331A.04, subdivisions 1-5 gives an order of priority for choosing an official newspaper where more than one qualified newspaper exists. Cities should review these criteria carefully to determine if and how many qualified newspapers are available to them. When designating an official newspaper, cities can enter into contracts for up to three years with the newspaper.

If no qualified newspaper exists, publication is not required pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 331A.03, subdivision 1.

For more information, see the LMC information memo on newspaper publication.

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