Magazine Publishers of America
After passing the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming support in October, the Senate equivalent, S. 2035, the Free Flow of Information Act, which was approved by the Judiciary Committee in October, awaits passage by the full Senate. The legislation would provide federal protection for reporters’ confidential sources, by providing a clear and uniform national standard regarding compelled disclosure by journalists of their confidential sources. While Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has suggested that the bill will be considered in July, the ongoing objection of a small number of Senators, combined with the packed legislative agenda, has put the legislation’s fate in jeopardy.
MPA has been extremely active in working to see this legislation passed. In late June, MPA organized a “DC Day” for members of MPA’s Legal Affairs Committee, with lobbying for the passage of the Shield legislation a major objective. LAC members were able to express their desire to see no more changes made to the legislation, and to reassure Members of Congress that the modifications that have been made to the legislation over the course of the last year adequately protect national security. They were also able to address the ongoing concerns Senator Cornyn (R-TX) has expressed about the definition of a journalist with his key staff members.
MPA, in conjunction with a broad-based coalition of journalists and media companies and associations, will fight for passage of this legislation in July, at what appears to be a key moment.
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