Module 7: Information Gathering Laws and Ethics

Freedom of information Act (FOIA)

Grants access to federal agency records for transparency.

Tittle II of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of

Regulates wiretaps for criminal investigations under Omnibus Crime Control Act.

Privacy Acts of 1974

Protects personal information held by federal agencies.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Safeguards student education records.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Ensures privacy of health information.

Florida Sunshine Law

Mandates open government and public records access in Florida.

Branzburg v. Hayes (1972)

Journalists must testify in grand jury; no privilege.

Nebraska Press Association v. Stuart (1976)

Prior restraints on press are generally unconstitutional.

Chandler v. Florida (1981)

Televising trials doesn't violate Sixth Amendment.

Cohen v. Cowles Media Co. (1991)

Journalists can be sued for breaching source confidentiality promises.

Subpoena

Compels testimony or evidence; reporters can refuse if risks safety or ethics breach.

Shield Law

Protects journalists from revealing sources or unpublished information.

SLAPP Lawsuit

Intimidates critics, potentially stifling free speech.

Florida Statute Section 406.135

Protects autopsy media from public disclosure, inspired by Dale Earnhardt's case.

Media Professional Ethics: Why is it important?

Balancing information access for accountability with responsible sharing to avoid harm and maintain ethics.