Testimony in needed in support of two bills that would make Hawaii’s journalist shield law permanent, which are set for public hearing before the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday afternoon, February 22.

Hawaii’s shield law has been cited as a model and certain parts copied by other jurisdictions and, most importantly, it has successfully balanced competing interests. There haven’t been any problems in the more than two years since it went into effect.

My commentary on Hawaii Public Radio last week urged the legislature to quickly act to renew the law. You can listen to the commentary or read the text.

The bills:

HB 1376
RELATING TO EVIDENCE.
Makes permanent the limited news media privilege against the compelled disclosure of sources and unpublished information.

HB 194
RELATING TO EVIDENCE.
Makes permanent the limited news media privilege against the compelled disclosure of sources and unpublished information.

HB 1376 was introduced by Blake Oshiro, who was instrumental in the shield law’s original passage. HB194 is a Republican-backed measure. The bills are identical.

To file testimony online, just go to the legislature’s web site and choose “submit testimony.” A simple form will guide you through the process. You can attach written testimony and easily leave short comments indicating your support or opposition.