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Foxx votes to protect reporters’ right to confidentiality
Washington, DC,
October 17, 2007
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx last night voted to protect journalists’ right to confidentiality. She voted in favor of the Free Flow of Information Act (H.R. 2102), a bill that will shield reporters from being subpoenaed or jailed over con
Contact: Aaron Groen
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx last night voted to protect journalists’ right to confidentiality. She voted in favor of the Free Flow of Information Act (H.R. 2102), a bill that will shield reporters from being subpoenaed or jailed over confidential sources. The so-called media shield legislation passed the House by a vote of 398-21. “A free press is a vital component of our nation’s foundational liberties,” Rep. Foxx said. “By ensuring that reporters are not compelled by the government to reveal the identity of confidential sources this legislation protects the free flow of information—a fundamental component of a free and informed electorate.” The Free Flow of Information Act protects journalists from court subpoenas that would compel them to compromise otherwise confidential sources. The legislation includes provisions that limit this privilege in cases that could prevent acts of terrorism or that involve threats to national security. “This bill strikes the right balance between protecting reporters and protecting our national security,” Foxx said. “Media confidentiality privileges shield reporters from government harassment, but these privileges should be tempered by a concern for our national security.” The Free Flow of Information Act is the first federal media shield bill to actually pass the House of Representatives. Approximately 100 media shield bills have been introduced in Congress over the past three decades. ### |