Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Bob Menendez
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on World Press Freedom Day, U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), alongside Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), re-introduced legislation to strengthen protections for journalists and the free press when engaging in essential newsgathering. The Journalist Protection Act would make intentionally harming or intimidating a working journalist a federal crime to send a clear message that the free flow of news without undue harm is paramount.
“Journalists are as fundamental to democracy as those elected to serve in public office – they are the watchdogs who hold the government accountable and help keep our liberties and freedoms intact,” said Sen. Menendez. “Ensuring their freedom and personal safety to perform their jobs is our duty, and with the Journalist Protection Act we will take a significant step forward to protect the freedom of press in America.”
“Surging threats and violence against the press demand action,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “The right and responsibility of journalists to hold accountable people in positions of power is vital to our democracy. This bill will help enable reporters to do their jobs without fear or interference.”
“No democracy is complete without access to transparent and reliable information,” said Rep. Swalwell. “The Journalist Protection Act will ensure that journalists can do their jobs without fear by sending a message that no matter where the facts may lead, those who seek them must be protected.”
Today’s bill re-introduction comes as attacks on journalists remain at an all-time high. According to UNESCO, 86 journalists and media workers were killed around the world in 2022 — one every four days — representing a 50 percent increase from the last three years. The Journalist Protection Act makes an important statement that violence targeting the free press, an industry protected by the First Amendment, will not be tolerated. It will also serve as the federal backstop if such crimes are not punishable at the state or local level.
Organizations supporting the bill include: Communications Works of America, News Media Alliance, Radio Television Digital News Association, National Press Photographers Association, National Newspaper Association, News Leaders Association, Society of Professional Journalists, Professional Photographers of America, American Society of Media Photographers, National Association of Broadcasters, Reporters’ Committee for Freedom of the Press, North American Nature Photography Association, and American Photographic Artists.
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