PRESS Act

The PRESS Act (S. 2074) limits government access to journalists' protected information, including sources and communications. It requires federal courts to approve subpoenas forcing journalists or tech companies to disclose such information only if the government proves a "reasonable threat of imminent violence" or prevents terrorism. The law specifically protects personal accounts and devices used by journalists, barring disclosure unless a court finds it necessary and narrowly tailored. It excludes civil defamation cases and certain criminal investigations (e.g., if a journalist is suspected of a crime), while applying only to federal cases.