Is a federal shield law necessary to protect a free press? - Tilted Forum Project - TFP - Sexuality, Philosophy and Political Discussion

dc_dux · 09-01-2008, 05:05 PM

I'm prompted by host's reference to Sy Hersh in another thread. Hersch is often confronted with pressure to reveal sources.

Is a federal shield law necessary to protect a free press?

A federal media shield law would give journalists the right to refuse to reveal information and sources obtained during the newsgathering process with a few notable exceptions, including where national security is at issue. (the exceptions are in the bill summary below)

The House passed a shield law last year by a vote of 398-21 last year.

The companion bill under consideration in the Senate has been blocked by Republicans as late as last month when the Senate failed to reach the 60 vote margin to proceed with the bill.

Bush, Cheney, Mukasey (AG) and Chertoff (DHS) have been vocal in their opposition on the grounds that it would harm national security.

IMO, such a protection of the press is essential to ensure transparency in government. Most states have shield laws. A federal law is long overdue.

09-01-2008, 05:05 PM	#1 (permalink)
dc_dux Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Washington DC	Is a federal shield law necessary to protect a free press? I'm prompted by host's reference to Sy Hersh in another thread. Hersch is often confronted with pressure to reveal sources. Is a federal shield law necessary to protect a free press? A federal media shield law would give journalists the right to refuse to reveal information and sources obtained during the newsgathering process with a few notable exceptions, including where national security is at issue. (the exceptions are in the bill summary below) The House passed a shield law last year by a vote of 398-21 last year. The companion bill under consideration in the Senate has been blocked by Republicans as late as last month when the Senate failed to reach the 60 vote margin to proceed with the bill. Bush, Cheney, Mukasey (AG) and Chertoff (DHS) have been vocal in their opposition on the grounds that it would harm national security. IMO, such a protection of the press is essential to ensure transparency in government. Most states have shield laws. A federal law is long overdue. __________________ "In this world of sin and sorrow there is always something to be thankful for; as for me, I rejoice that I am not a Republican. " ~ H.L. Mencken Last edited by dc_dux; 09-01-2008 at 05:10 PM.