Earl Glynn

Trust, confidence, protection, faith — these are the words that describe the relationship between doctors and patients, lawyers and clients, and reporters and sources. However, only two of those three relationships are provided legal protection from sharing the secrets passed between parties. In several states, reporters have absolutely no protection when it comes to revealing their sources on a given story.

In fact, only 37 states have established a “shield law” that provides reporters legal protection against being forced to disclose confidential information or sources in state court. Currently there is no federal shield law that mandates protection on a national level for journalists.

Kansas took one step closer to enacting a shield law Tuesday when the state Senate approved a bill to allow news reporters to shield confidential sources and protect unpublished information from disclosure to law enforcement. Not only was the movement on this legislation a win for reporters, but it is a win for anyone who enjoys consuming news or believes in the freedom-of-the-press right granted by the First Amendment.

Shield laws do more than allow reporters to use “unnamed sources.” Shield laws protect the people’s right to know. They also play a vital role in forbidding the intimidation of would-be whistle-blowers and turning reputable news organizations into investigative arms of law enforcement and the government.

In the coming weeks, lawmakers in both chambers must work together to finalize this important piece of legislation. Then reporters in Kansas will know that they have the right to expose the truth and shine light on corruption without the concern of government intervention.

Earl Glynn
Director
Kansas Watchdog
Overland Park

This editorial was published Thursday in the Wichita Eagle.  Read the full article.

A similar editorial appeared Thursday in the Dodge City Globe.

• Legislature backs shield law for journalists, Kanssa City Star, 1 April 2010.
• Shield Law, Lawrence Journal-World, March 25, 2010.
• Reporter’s shield law sails through Senate, Winfield Courier, March 24, 2010.