The Protect Reporters from Exploitive State Spying (PRESS) Act has been reintroduced to Congress in a bipartisan effort. The critical legislation, endorsed by Republican and Democratic senators, aims to safeguard the free press from unnecessary government intrusion – a cornerstone of America’s commitment to the First Amendment.
The PRESS Act’s primary objectives are to shield journalists from being coerced into revealing their sources and to prevent the covert seizure of crucial data held by third-party entities, like internet or phone companies, without proper notification and legal challenge.
Inside the Beltway: Bipartisan PRESS Act aims to stem government snooping on news outlets – https://t.co/gIAN5cWI4N – @washtimes
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) June 25, 2023
Underscoring the significance of this bill, Seth Stern, director of advocacy for the Freedom of the Press Foundation, applauded it as the “strongest federal shield bill for journalists we’ve ever seen.” He noted that the Act’s definition of journalist is inclusive, its exceptions are limited and precise and hampers subpoenas directed to journalists and their communication providers.
In an era where citizens’ trust in the media is often under fire, the PRESS Act reinforces the fourth pillar of democracy. As Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT), one of the lawmakers behind the bill’s reintroduction, noted, “The role of reporters as truth-seekers and watchdogs cannot be understated.” Furthermore, he highlighted that this legislation is vital to shield journalists from needless government surveillance and, by extension, safeguard the public’s right to access information.
At its core, the PRESS Act underlines the principles of free speech and democratic accountability inherent to our nation’s DNA. This bipartisan bill extends across party lines and serves the greater interests of all Americans. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR), who also helped reintroduce the bill, argued that “unnecessary surveillance of journalists makes it harder to bring waste, fraud and misuse to light,” crucial for the functioning of our democracy.
While existing legislation in 48 states and the District of Columbia provide some form of shield law or reporter’s privilege, the protections are inconsistent and ineffective against investigations by federal agencies. The PRESS Act bridges this gap, ensuring journalists need not risk their freedom or sources when reporting important news stories in the national interest.
The Act encompasses professional and citizen journalists and applies regardless of a news outlet’s perceived political leanings. It acknowledges the evolving nature of journalism in the digital age, protecting journalists’ communication records with sources via modern platforms such as email, cloud services, and social media.
The bipartisan PRESS Act reflects our commitment to a free and accountable press. It’s high time for Congress to pass it. In the words of Lee, “We must seize this opportunity and ensure that the Fourth Estate remains an indomitable force in its quest for truth.”
