The "Protect Reporters from Exploitative State Spying Act" aims to safeguard journalists and their sources from compelled disclosure of protected information by state entities. The bill defines key terms such as "covered journalist," "covered service provider," and "protected information," establishing a framework that limits when state entities can compel journalists to disclose information. Specifically, a court must determine that disclosure is necessary to prevent acts of terrorism or imminent violence before a journalist can be compelled to reveal their sources or related information. Additionally, the bill sets forth requirements for state entities seeking to compel testimony or documents from covered service providers, ensuring that journalists are notified and given an opportunity to be heard.

The legislation also includes provisions to ensure that subpoenas are not overly broad or oppressive, requiring them to be narrowly tailored to avoid unnecessary disclosure of nonessential information. Furthermore, it clarifies that the act does not prevent investigations into journalists suspected of criminal activity or other serious offenses. The bill repeals an existing section of law and establishes an effective date of July 1, 2025, for its provisions.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 38-6-7
JC substitute: 38-6-7