1. United States
2. Colo.
3. Letter

The PRESS Act (H.R. 4250) aims to protect the free flow of information by establishing limits on the federally compelled disclosure of information obtained through journalism. This legislation is crucial to safeguarding press freedom and ensuring that reporters can gather and disseminate news without fear of retaliation or having their sources exposed. Under the Act, federal entities would be prohibited from compelling journalists to disclose protected information, such as the identities of confidential sources or unpublished materials, unless specific conditions are met. These exceptions are narrowly tailored to prevent acts of terrorism or imminent threats of violence. The bill also protects service providers like email and cloud storage companies from being forced to disclose journalists' records and communications. By establishing appropriate boundaries, the PRESS Act preserves the ability of the press to serve as a watchdog and hold the powerful accountable. Investigative journalism depends on the ability to protect confidential sources, many of whom would not come forward if there was a risk of exposure. Shielding this information is essential for exposing corruption, wrongdoing, and matters of public concern. Enacting the PRESS Act will uphold the First Amendment's guarantee of a free press and reinforce the public's right to access information crucial for a thriving democracy. I urge you to support this legislation to prevent the exploitation of journalists' records and protect their vital role as truthtellers.