Posted by Hmm on April 09, 2009 at 17:45:35:
Taken from a mailbag article in the WSJ:
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Openness blocked by media shield law
The press is to be commended for their efforts to promote access to the records of government agencies. Government, which has power to affect the lives, fortunes and reputations of us all, must be open to assure this power is not abused. While there are appropriate areas for confidentiality, with limits subject to judicial oversight, the rule must be openness.
The media, too, have power which, if abused, can have similar adverse impacts on individuals. It should also be open to the public's right to know, including the sources upon which its news and opinions are based.
Yes, there are appropriate areas for confidentiality, and in our society we rely on an independent judiciary to balance these competing interests.
Your March 18 editorial supporting the media shield law ignores this latter need for openness and transparency. It says, in essence, "trust us, we won't do anything wrong." Bernie Madoff gave similar assurances to his investors.
-- W. P. Horton, Madison