WASHINGTON, DC -- NAB today applauded House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers (MI-14), Reps. Rick Boucher (VA-9), Bob Goodlatte (VA-6) and their Judiciary Committee colleagues for approving H.R. 985, the Free Flow of Information Act. The legislation, which would establish a federal law allowing journalists to protect the identity of confidential sources, passed today by a voice vote.
Commenting on the Judiciary Committee action, NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton issued the following statement:
"For years, broadcast journalists have demonstrated a commitment to keeping Americans informed with timely investigative reporting on issues of critical importance. Key to this effort is a reporter's ability to retain access to confidential sources without fear of prosecutorial reprisal. NAB thanks Chairman Conyers and Reps. Boucher, Goodlatte and Pence for their continued leadership on this issue, and we look forward to passage by the full House and Senate."
Yesterday, NAB President and CEO David K. Rehr sent a letter to Chairman Conyers thanking him for his leadership on the issue and urging swift passage of the bill. With today's action, H.R. 985 will now go before the full House of Representatives for approval. Companion legislation in the Senate, S. 448, is awaiting committee consideration.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. As the voice of more than 8,300 radio and television stations, NAB advances their interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.