Press Contact
Joel Gross
Press Secretary
(202) 224-3244
Amy in the News
Klobuchar Calls for National Reporter Shield Law
March 31, 2009
Scandia County Messenger
http://www.countrymessenger.com/read/detail/41836.html
March 31, 2009
During remarks to the National Association of Broadcasters, Klobuchar says that a free press is critical to democracy
During remarks to the National Association of Broadcasters today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar called for a national reporter shield law. Klobuchar is a sponsor of the bipartisan Free Flow of Information Act, which would protect journalists and their sources from unwarranted legal interference in the newsgathering process.
“Democracy depends on an informed public and the free flow of information, and that in turn depends on journalists being able to gather information without fear,” said Klobuchar. “This bill will provide journalists with reasonable protections so that they can continue to serve as the public’s eyes and ears.”
The Free Flow of Information Act would protect journalists from being compelled to testify or reveal confidential sources in legal proceedings and government investigations unless a judge finds a compelling need, such as when their evidence would prevent terrorist acts or violent harm to individuals.
The legislation was introduced by Senator Specter and sponsored by, among others, Senators Lugar, Schumer, and Murray.
Senator Klobuchar’s Offices
302 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Main Line: 202-224-3244
Main Fax: 202-228-2186
Toll Free: 1-888-224-9043
1200 Washington Avenue South, Suite 250
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Main Line: 612-727-5220
Main Fax: 612-727-5223
Toll Free: 1-888-224-9043
1134 7th Street NW
Rochester, MN 55901
Main Line: 507-288-5321
Fax: 507-288-2922
121 4th Street South
Moorhead, MN 56560
Main Line: 218-287-2219
Fax: 218-287-2930
Olcott Plaza, Suite 105
820 9th Street North
Virginia, MN 55792
Main Line: 218-741-9690
Fax: 218-741-3692