Update: First Amendment – Federal Shield Law
Tuesday, June 6th, 2006Updated June 2, 2006:
Compelling reporters to testify, and, in particular, to reveal the identity of a confidential source, will restrict the flow of information to the public. To protect this public interest, while still advancing the public interest in having reporters testify in certain circumstances, Sens. Richard Lugar (R-IN), Arlen Specter (R-PA), Christopher Dodd (D-CT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Charles Schumer (D-NY) have introduced S. 2831, the “Free Flow of Information Act of 2006.” Reps. Pence (R-IN) and Boucher (D-VA) have also introduced H.R. 3323, similar federal shield law legislation in the House.
