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Norman Transcript — We need a federal shield law
- By: ASNE staff
- On: 07/31/2008 12:19:27
- In: Shield law editorials
The Norman (Okla.) Transcript
July 25, 2008
News reporters operating in 49 states and the District of Columbia have a shield law that protects them from divulging confidential sources. Oklahoma is one of them.
That protection gives news sources an assurance that a
The Norman (Okla.) Transcript
July 25, 2008
News reporters operating in 49 states and the District of Columbia have a shield law that protects them from divulging confidential sources. Oklahoma is one of them.
That protection gives news sources an assurance that a judge can't force such information. Reporters summoned to federal court don't have that protection.
The U.S. Senate is expected to vote within a few days on a federal reporters shield law. It has the endorsement of major national journalism organizations, including The Associated Press Managing Editors.
While also safeguarding national security, this legislation would require federal courts to recognize the right of reporters to protect confidential sources. Without this shield law, journalists who refuse to betray their sources will continue to face imprisonment and fines designed to cause their personal bankruptcy.
We urge the Senate to adopt such protection. It's important to assure the free flow of information in a democratic society.