CONGRESSWOMAN GWEN MOORE: FREEDOM OF PRESS, SPEECH CRUCIAL TO SUSTAINING OPEN GOVERNMENT
Congresswoman Gwen Moore released the following statement on the Free Flow of Information Act, H.R. 2102, which passed the House of Representatives this afternoon. The bill would set criteria that must be met to compel the disclosure of sources and information from reporters, ensuring that reporters could continue guaranteeing confidentiality for their sources.
"Our government was founded on the principles of free speech and free press and we must continue to protect these basic freedoms. This is a win-win bill -- while ensuring that confidential sources remain willing to share vital information, the bill also makes certain law enforcement officials are not hindered in their efforts to protect our national security.
"The press is an invaluable institution that serves to inform the public of the critical activities taken by corporations, individuals and our government. By protecting their rights, we're protecting our right to know."