The House has just passed the Free Flow of Information Act, also known as the federal shield law. The bill passed by a vote of 398-21, a margin that would easily override the veto which the White House has promised (pdf). The bill provides journalists with a qualified privilege as to sources and information, while at the same time, recognizing the need for effective law enforcement and robust national security. A blogger who regularly engages in journalistic activities – such as gathering and publishing news and information for dissemination to the public – and does so for a substantial portion of the person’s livelihood or for substantial financial gain would be covered by the shield as a journalist.
Open Congress has more information here.
Now I just need to figure out how to make "substantial" financial gains from this blog. Ideas, anyone?
There are several views on this, you may want to review what Rob Port from Congoo News says about the shield law:
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I do not know if I agree with the law and I think Bush should Veto it.
I don't have any ideas on how to make substantial financial gains from your blog but if you get any ideas please share ;-)
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