DOJFinal Rule
Policy Regarding Obtaining Information from, or Records of, Members of the News Media; and Regarding Questioning, Arresting, or Charging Members of the News Media
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Summary
This Department of Justice regulation sets rules for how federal agents can obtain information from journalists, search their records, and decide whether to arrest or charge them. The policy is designed to protect press freedom while allowing law enforcement to conduct necessary investigations.
Key Points
- 1Federal agents must get special approval from high-level DOJ officials before obtaining a journalist's records, phone logs, or sources
- 2Law enforcement cannot arrest or charge journalists solely for doing their job of reporting news, even if the information is sensitive
- 3The regulation aims to balance national security and law enforcement needs with the public's interest in a free press
- 4Journalists and news organizations should know they have additional legal protections when dealing with federal investigators
- 5This policy applies to all federal law enforcement agencies and establishes consistent standards across the government
Impact Assessment
If you are a journalist or news media organization, this means federal law enforcement must follow specific procedures before obtaining your information or records, requiring them to provide notice and allow you an opportunity to object.
Impact Level
Moderate
Geographic Scope
National
Compliance Cost
Minimal
Who is Affected
Technology Companies
Key Dates
Published
May 2, 2025
Regulatory Connections
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (DOJ_FRDOC_0001)
DOJTechnology
Privacy Act; Implementation
DOJOther
Consolidation of the Office of the Executive Secretariat into the Justice Management Division
DOJOther
Rescinding Portions of Department of Justice Title VI Regulations to Conform More Closely with the Statutory Text and to Implement Executive Order 14281
DOJFinance & Banking
Transfer of the Functions of the Tax Division to the Civil Division and the Criminal Division
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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