Editorial: The New York Times

• A free and independent press plays a crucial role in government oversight and exposing abuses of power.
• Protecting the identity of journalists’ sources is vital for this function.
• There is a need for protection at the federal level against the evolution of electronic snooping and polarized politics.
• The PRESS Act would shield reporters from court-ordered disclosure of their sources of information, except in cases of preventing an act of terrorism or impending violence.
• Critics argue the PRESS Act could open floodgates to leaks that could undermine national security, although there is no evidence supporting this.
• The law would not protect journalists who break laws to acquire information, keeping national security as priority.

Conclusion: The PRESS Act is needed now more than ever to ensure that reporters can continue their essential role as watchdogs over the government without the threat of court-ordered demands for their sources and information.

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