May 9, 2024

CODE OF ETHICS

Local News First, LLC. operates under a strict code of ethics, adapted from the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics. More details and resources on each of our principles can be found in the full SPJ code of ethics linked HERE.

Code of Ethics for My Local News First Journalists:

  • Take responsibility for the accuracy of the work. Verify information before releasing it. Use original sources whenever possible.
  • Provide context. Take special care not to misrepresent or oversimplify in promoting, previewing or summarizing a story.
  • Identify news sources clearly.
  • Reserve anonymity for sources who may face danger, retribution or other harm, and have information that cannot be obtained elsewhere.
  • Provide access to source material when it is relevant and appropriate.
  • Avoid stereotyping. Examine the ways their own values and experiences may shape their reporting.
  • Do not provide opinion or commentary.
  • Never deliberately distort facts or context, including visual information.
  • Never plagiarize. Always attribute.
  • Show compassion for those who may be affected by news coverage.
  • Consider cultural differences in approach and treatment.
  • Use heightened sensitivity when dealing with juveniles, victims of sex crimes, and sources or subjects who are inexperienced or unable to give consent.
  • Do not publish private information.
  • Avoid pandering to lurid curiosity, even if others do.
  • Balance a suspect’s right to a fair trial with the public’s right to know. Consider the implications of identifying criminal suspects before they face legal charges.
  • Consider the long-term implications of the extended reach and permanence of publication. Provide updated and more complete information when appropriate.
  • Have an understanding of where conflicts of interest may exist, real or perceived, and avoid them. Disclose unavoidable conflicts clearly, and transparently.
  • Refuse gifts, favors, fees, free travel and special treatment.
  • Do not pay for access to news. Identify content provided by outside sources, whether paid or not.
  • Deny favored treatment to advertisers, donors or any other special interests, and resist internal and external pressure to influence coverage.
  • Distinguish news from advertising. Clear label sponsored content.
  • Respond quickly to questions about accuracy, clarity and fairness.
  • Acknowledge mistakes and correct them promptly and transparently.
  • Expose unethical conduct in journalism, even in our own organization in a fair and unbiased way.

Contact Information

This website is owned and operated by My Local News First, LLC.

You may contact us regarding these ethical standards, and any concerns about possible violations, by writing or emailing us at the following address:

My Local News First, LLC
629 Maple Valley Drive PMB #117
Farmington, MO 63640-1993

888-498-NEWS (6397)

HR@mylocalnewsfirst.com