MPA supports re-introduced legislation that would make it a federal crime to knowingly assault a reporter engaged in the act of newsgathering
Washington, D.C., July 29, 2021 – MPA – The Association of Magazine Media today expressed continued support for the Journalist Protection Act reintroduced by Senator Richard Blumenthal, Senator Robert Menendez and Representative Eric Swalwell. The legislation would better protect journalists and the free press by making the intimidation of a working journalist or the knowing assault of a reporter engaged in newsgathering a federal crime.
“MPA commends Senator Blumenthal, Senator Menendez and Representative Swalwell for recognizing that journalists and publishers serve a vital role by keeping the public informed, and must be protected. The Journalist Protection Act will uphold the rights of the press, who sometimes face arrest, intimidation, and even outright violence. MPA stands with the sponsors of this important legislation in our commitment to defend First Amendment rights whenever they are threatened.” said Brigitte Schmidt Gwyn, President & CEO of MPA – The Association of Magazine Media.
The association, which represents more than 500 magazine media brands, has long supported legislative proposals that promote the freedom to write and publish.
For over a century, MPA has defended and promoted the nation’s right to a free press. Magazine media serves a vital public interest through incisive, carefully researched long-form journalism