ACLU Supports New Reporter’s Shield Law That Would Protect Bloggers

A new reporter's shield law, the Free Flow of Information Act, has been introduced in Congress.

The proposed legislation would protect a broader group of people than earlier versions, including bloggers. It covers anyone engaged in journalism, which is defined as "gathering, preparing, collecting, photographing, recording, writing, editing, reporting or publishing of news or information that concerns local, national or international events or other matters of public interest for dissemination to the public." More information here.

See ACLU National statement here commending the House Judiciary Committee as it considers this important First Amendment legislation.

"An independent and active press is a bedrock element of our country's democracy. The press must be able to function free from government intrusion or intimidation. Government sets a dangerous precedent when they threaten reporters with subpoenas and prosecution simply for doing their job." – Caroline Fredrickson, Director of the ACLU Washington Legislative Office.

Read the ACLU Document- Publish or Perish: The Need for a Federal Reporters' Shield Law.