Bill > HB153

This bill, known as the Protect Reporters from Exploitative State Spying Act, establishes comprehensive protections for journalists and their service providers against compelled disclosure of confidential information by state government entities. The bill provides detailed definitions of key terms such as "covered journalist" (a person who regularly gathers and reports news) and "protected information" (information identifying sources or journalistic materials). Under the bill, state entities cannot force journalists or their service providers to disclose protected information unless a court determines, by a preponderance of evidence, that the disclosure is necessary to prevent terrorism or imminent violence. The bill includes strict procedural requirements for any attempts to compel disclosure, such as providing notice to the journalist and ensuring that any requested information is narrowly tailored and not overly broad. Importantly, the bill includes a rule of construction that does not prevent investigations of journalists who are suspected of criminal activity, are witnesses to crimes, or are associated with terrorist organizations. The act will become effective on July 1, 2025, and repeals a previous section of New Mexico state law. The primary goal of the bill is to safeguard journalistic sources and materials while maintaining provisions for legitimate law enforcement needs.

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https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=153&year=25