As we learned in lecture, only thirty-seven states have shield laws that offer reporters some statutory law protection to conceal their confidential sources or to testify. As of April 15, 2010, Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson signed the thirty-eighth state shield law.
When the Senate gave permission to pass the shield law, back on March 23, 2010, it explains who is covered under the law. “The bill defines who is a journalist and therefore covered by the proposed law. The definition includes not only traditional media such as newspapers, radio and television but an online journal regularly involved in reporting and disseminating information to the public.”
According to the article, Parkinson takes a very strong desire to protect the rights of Kansas journalists. Doug Anstaett, executive director of Kansas Press Association said, “The law will encourage reporters and their sources to step forward to uncover abuse and corruption in government.”
It will go into effect July 1, 2010 when published in the Kansas Statute Book.
To review this article: The Wichita Eagle/Kansas.com
---MONA
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