Congressman Poe Introduces The “Free Flow Of Information Act Of 2013”

This week, I introduced H.R. 1962, the Free Flow of Information Act of 2013. This bill will protect reporters from being compelled to reveal their confidential news sources in federal court proceedings. Specifically, the bill would maintain the free flow of information to the public by providing conditions for the federally compelled disclosure of information by certain persons connected with the news media.

Democracy cannot exist without a free press. A free press provides critical information to the public, including information about the activity of the federal government. The media’s ability to deliver the news provides a crucial check on government power. Maintaining confidentiality of sources is critical to ensuring the free flow of information without government interference.