Posted Apr. 25, 2008
A bill to make Maine the latest state with a "shield law" allowing journalists to protect confidential sources has been signed by Gov. John Baldacci.
The Legislature gave its final approval Tuesday, April 16, to the bill without opposition, sending it to the governor.
Supported by news media organizations, Portland Democratic Rep. John Hinck's bill provides journalists with more protection when they report on illegal or improper activities through the use of confidential sources. It does not include protections for non-confidential information.
Sources would have to be revealed if the information is crucial to a court case or disclosure is of overriding public interest. Supporters say 32 other states have shield laws.
The bill was supported by the Maine Press Association, the Maine chapter of the Society of Professinal Journalists and the Maine Association of Broadcasters.
