A substantial number of television news viewers express the concern that local TV news is biased and sensational, often over-dramatizes the news, does not look out for ordinary people, manufactures news stories, and overlooks stories that ought to be reported (Broadcasting & Cable, Sept. 21, 1998, p. 52). Viewer reactions come from local television news content - the product of newsroom employee decisions. In this context, it might be worthwhile to have an understanding of how decisions are made about local news. Research is needed on the role of organizational structure within newsrooms. Station competition leads to market forces that may be important to the individuals making final decisions about the airing of local news stories.