H1595

To protect the confidentiality of journalistic news sources and information

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H1595 protects the confidentiality of journalistic news sources and unpublished information.

Massachusetts H1595 establishes an absolute privilege for journalists to protect the confidentiality of their news sources and unpublished information. This law ensures that journalists cannot be compelled to disclose the identity of confidential sources in any legal proceeding. It also protects unpublished information, such as notes and photographs, unless the information is material, necessary, and cannot be obtained through alternative means without undue hardship. This privilege may not be invoked if disclosure is necessary to prevent imminent harm.

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Sep 23, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Sep 16, 2025

Joint

Hearing scheduled for 09/23/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2

Sep 16, 2025

House

Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order