U.S. judge rules against Pentagon restrictions on press coverage
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The Bottom Line
Federal judge strikes down Pentagon rule requiring journalists to get permission before gathering defense information.
AI Summary
A U.S. judge ruled that Pentagon restrictions requiring media organizations to pledge not to gather information without Defense Department authorization violate the First Amendment. The policy required journalists to obtain formal approval from Pentagon officials before collecting any defense-related information for publication. The court found these rules incompatible with constitutional protections for press freedom. The ruling strikes down a significant barrier to independent news gathering on military and defense matters.
What's Being Done
A U.S. judge ruled the Pentagon's media approval requirement violates the First Amendment and struck down the policy.
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Striking Down Pentagon Press Limits, Judge Vindicates Independent Journalism - The New York Times
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