Freedom of the Press

Plain English

Journalists and citizens can report and publish, including criticism of the government.

What It Protects

• Reporting, commentary, gathering and distributing news
• Strong presumption against prior restraints

Limits

• Laws on classified info, defamation, or narrowly tailored orders in rare cases

Why It Matters

An informed public needs watchdogs to hold power accountable.

Related Cases

• Press
• Prior Restraint