• by Ray Schultz , January 21, 2024

The U.S. House of Representatives has unanimously passed the bipartisan Protect Reporters from Exploitative State Spying (PRESS) Act. 

“House passage of the PRESS Act in a unanimous vote moves America closer to establishing our first federal press shield law ever,” says co-author, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Maryland).   

Raskin adds that the PRESS Act “will finally create a federal statutory privilege to protect journalists from being compelled to reveal confidential sources and to prevent federal law enforcement from abusing subpoena power. No longer will reporters have to worry that under a future repressive administration federal law enforcement agencies might secretly subpoena their emails and phone records even though journalists depend on confidentiality to keep the American public informed.”

Raskin adds: “This awesome bipartisan vote at a time of party polarization underscores the binding power and universal appeal of freedom of the press as a leading constitutional principle. This is a significant victory for the people and our First Amendment values.”

“Liberty depends on the freedom of the press,” adds co-sponsor Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA). “Journalists are often the first to expose government fraud, waste, abuse and encroachments on personal freedoms.”

Kiley adds, “Administrations from both political parties have unjustly targeted journalists and used compulsory process to obtain information from them about their sources. Most states have protected journalists from such interference, and it is past time for Congress to do so as well.”

The unanimous passage was applauded by Danielle Coffey, president and CEO of the News/Media Alliance. “The PRESS Act provides a vital safeguard for the important work of the free press in reporting on matters important to our communities, without fear of government interference or intimidation.”