Bill > S2457

This bill, the Protect Reporters from Excessive State Suppression Act (PRESS Act), establishes limits on the federal government's ability to compel the disclosure of information obtained by journalists as part of their work. It defines key terms like "covered journalist" and "protected information," and prohibits federal entities from compelling covered journalists to disclose such information unless it is necessary to prevent terrorism or imminent violence, harm, or death. The bill also places restrictions on the federal government's ability to compel covered service providers like internet and telecommunications companies to disclose information related to covered journalists' personal accounts or devices. The bill does not apply to civil defamation claims or certain investigations of journalists suspected of criminal activities or ties to foreign powers.