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February 19, 2025 – USA –
In a landmark victory for press freedom, Idaho has become the 41st U.S. state to enact a media shield law, offering legal protections for journalists who seek to protect the identities of confidential sources. The legislation, House Bill 158, passed unanimously through both chambers of the Idaho Legislature and was signed into law in late February 2025. It is scheduled to take effect on July 1.
The new law ensures that journalists cannot be compelled to reveal confidential sources or unpublished materials in most legal proceedings. It applies to reporters, editors, and producers across print, broadcast, and digital platforms. Exceptions are included only in cases involving national security, prevention of death or serious injury, or when information cannot be obtained by any other means.
Support for the bill was widespread and bipartisan. Sponsored by Republican Representatives Barbara Ehardt and Marco Erickson of Idaho Falls, the bill was created in collaboration with the Idaho Press Club, which had long advocated for legal safeguards for reporters. Ehardt emphasized that the measure balances accountability with the need for journalistic independence and whistleblower protection.
The push for the shield law was bolstered by testimony from journalists like Ben Olson, publisher of the Sandpoint Reader. Olson faced a subpoena after reporting on white nationalist activities in North Idaho. He described receiving death threats and legal pressure to hand over his notes and recordings—an experience that highlighted the urgent need for legal protections for local media.
Press advocates have hailed the new law as a crucial safeguard for investigative journalism in Idaho. Members of the Idaho Press Club praised the bill’s passage as a signal that lawmakers understand the importance of protecting the flow of information between sources and reporters.
With the law in place, Idaho joins the majority of U.S. states that recognize the importance of a free and independent press as a cornerstone of democracy. Advocates now hope the remaining states without shield laws will follow suit to ensure journalists everywhere can do their work without fear of reprisal or legal coercion.
Reference –
Idaho House unanimously passes media shield law bill protecting journalists’ sources
