Newspaper Preservation Act

The Newspaper Preservation Act of 1970 was passed in 1970 to allow antitrust exemptions for newspapers in the same geographic region with agreements to share business and operating expenses while maintaining separate news and editorial functions. Known as joint operating agreements, or JOAs, these were intended to connect a “failing” newspaper with a stronger one. In theory, these agreements permit competition in a newspaper market by saving the weaker paper. In practice, some critics argue, JOAs permit additional monopolization of the news product by shutting out other publications.

In 2009, there were 10 JOAs operating in the United States: Albuquerque (Tribune and News, this was the first JOA established in 1933); Birmingham (News and PostHerald); Charleston, West Virginia (Gazette and Daily Mail); Cincinnati (Enquirer and Post); ...