What Is CNPA (California News Publishers Association)?

Updated

CNPA is the California News Publishers Association, a trade organization that represents news publishers across California. It protects members' interests, upholds journalistic ideals, and works to strengthen communities through a free press. It serves daily, weekly, and monthly newspapers as well as digital and campus publications, and since 2020 it has also offered individual membership for freelancers.

What CNPA Does

CNPA's work falls into four main areas:

  • Legislative advocacy — CNPA tracks hundreds of bills each year that affect news publishing, covering everything from advertising and employment relations to freedom of information and the First Amendment.
  • Membership services — Members get access to benefits including a Legal Helpline, a Job Bank, and a member directory.
  • Ad services — CNPA Advertising Services acts as a strategic partner for delivering local engagement at statewide or national scale, drawing on relationships with publishers and partners across California and beyond.
  • Events and education — CNPA runs webinars, the California Journalism Awards Gala, and an annual Capital Conference, keeping professionals connected across the state.

Who Can Join

Any daily, weekly, or monthly California newspaper — print, digital, or campus publication — may join CNPA. Individual membership opportunities for freelancers were added in 2020. Joining or logging in unlocks benefits such as the Legal Helpline and Job Bank.

Publications and Resources

CNPA publishes The Right to Know: A Guide to Public Access and Media Law, described as an essential resource for newsrooms, attorneys, and educators. The second edition, 15 years in the making, is available for digital purchase and download at $30.

Current Priorities

CNPA's recent activity includes advocacy around AB 2222, announcing the 2025 California Journalism Awards winners, and outlining key 2026 legislative priorities.