1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

The PRESS Act is crucial legislation that will safeguard journalists and their sources from unlawful government surveillance and coercion. For years, federal agencies have abused their power by seizing reporters' phone and email records, threatening them with jail time for refusing to reveal confidential sources. This chilling effect undermines the free flow of information and public accountability that a free press provides. The Act's robust protections bar the government from surveilling journalists through telecommunications metadata grabs and strictly limit when sources can be compelled. With 49 states having shield laws, it's past time for a strong federal standard. Enacting the PRESS Act upholds press freedom, a cornerstone of democracy that enables citizens to access vital information shielded from retaliation. I urge you to swiftly pass this commonsense, broadly supported bill that prevents abuses by any administration against those gathering and reporting news in the public interest. Our democratic society cannot afford to chill investigative journalism through legally sanctioned intimidation tactics. Approving the PRESS Act reinforces our nation's First Amendment values.