Media Shield Law Remains in Doubt

**Terri** · #1 03-17-2008, 10:07 AM

By HOPE YEN
Associated Press
March 17, 2008

WASHINGTON (AP) -- As federal judges order more reporters to disclose their confidential sources, news organizations are pinning their hopes on congressional passage of a media shield bill the Bush administration opposes as a threat to national security.

The legislation being considered in the Senate offers only modest shelter for reporters wanting to protect the identity of confidential sources. In many cases, it would leave the fate of journalists -- and their sources -- to the discretion of judges who increasingly have been willing to jail or fine them.

Out of nine high-profile cases since 2003 where journalists were ordered to reveal information, four might have turned out differently had the proposal awaiting Senate action been law.

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righton · #2 03-17-2008, 02:14 PM

If it concerns publication of classified or secret/sensitive information pertaining to national security, I'd be in favor of tossing their backsides in jail - maybe this would discourage the "unnamed" sources from following up on their particular agenda.

As far as other matters concerning government misbehavior, I'd say OK - as long as it was fair and balanced. Everyone's ox should be gored equally.

L&L

Texanna · #3 03-17-2008, 02:37 PM

I don't understand where journalists got the "right" to conceal their sources. Are they covered under the same laws as clergy and doctors?

If a source reveals a criminal act or a national secret to a journalist, the journalist has a moral duty to report that information to the authorities.

Journalistic integrity is an oxymoron.

plainolcitizen2 · #4 03-17-2008, 02:42 PM

this would give the journalists the absolute power to wreak havoc on our way of life. they should/must have valid sources and proof when they publish a story. how would you like it if an unfounded and untruue article stating you were a child molester or bank robber was published by an enemy of yours. it can and will happen if there is no accountability.

STEELMAN · #5 03-17-2008, 02:47 PM

Appears, to me at least, this is an inside infiltration communist action to give them "protected" cover while they continue to undermine the security of this nation.

Sly, very sly indeed and they are good at it.

Wouldn't we all like to be immune to prosecution by passing legislation to cover our butts in one way or another.