Opinion & Commentary Standards

Opinion & Commentary Editorial Standards

Maryland Bay News maintains a strict separation between news coverage and opinion content. These standards ensure transparency, fairness, and the credibility of our newsroom.

1. Distinction Between News and Opinion

  • News articles are factual, neutral, and reported by journalists.
  • Opinion and commentary express viewpoints, interpretations, and arguments from contributors.
  • Opinion content does not reflect the views of Maryland Bay News unless explicitly labeled Editorial.

Every op-ed and guest commentary is clearly labeled.

2. Standards for Opinion Writers

Opinion writers must:

  • Rely on accurate, verifiable facts
  • Avoid knowingly misleading statements
  • Provide sourcing when citing data or studies
  • Be transparent about conflicts of interest
  • Avoid personal attacks or unsubstantiated claims
  • Present arguments in a manner that contributes to public understanding

3. Editing for Accuracy and Clarity

All opinion submissions may undergo editing for:

  • Accuracy
  • Clarity
  • Readability
  • Style
  • Length
  • Legal risk
  • Compliance with newsroom standards

Significant edits that affect meaning will be discussed with the writer when possible.

4. Transparency & Disclosure

Writers must disclose relevant affiliations, financial interests, legal involvement, or political activities connected to the topic. Maryland Bay News may include notes or disclaimers when necessary.

5. Content We Do Not Publish

  • Defamation or unverified allegations
  • Hate speech
  • Harassment or incitement
  • Manipulated or fabricated evidence
  • Anonymous op-eds (letters may be anonymous in rare cases with editor approval)
  • Paid political advocacy masquerading as commentary

6. Corrections & Updates

If errors are discovered after publication, Maryland Bay News will issue corrections following our Corrections Policy.

7. Editorial Independence

Opinion content is not influenced by advertisers, donors, political parties, candidates, or outside pressure. Editorial decisions are made independently by the Editor-in-Chief.