 FINAL WORD ON FREEDOM OF PRESS

RIGHT OF ACCESS  This right is generally granted, but not always  Freedom of Information Act (1966)---Allows public access to all non-classified gov’t files; signed by Pres. Johnson with misgivings (Pushed by California Congressmen John Moss)  Electronic Freedom of Information Act (1996)---Requires agencies to put files online

Executive Privilege  President’s have right to withhold information  Exception: U.S. v. Nixon (1974) ---President’s generally have the right, except in criminal cases (Supreme Court ruled that President’s tapes must be turned over after the grand jury indictment against 7 Nixon aides, and president must obey subpoena for administration of justice)

Shield Laws  Protect reporters from having to reveal their sources  Claim by Press: Without shield laws, sources “dry up” and would be unable to provide valuable information to public  Laws passed by the states, but not at the federal level (through Congress); all 49 states have varying laws in place (ONLY EXCEPTION: WYOMING)

Defamation (injury of reputation)  Libel: defamation by written or printed words, pictures, or in any form other than by spoken words or gestures.  Slander: a malicious, false, and defamatory statement or report—verbal  Not protected by 1 st Amendment  To win lawsuit, one must prove allegation’s were false, malicious, and damaged one’s reputation (difficult)