State laws in 49 states affording privilege to journalists to not disclose information (i.e. notes and other materials) obtained during their newsgathering activities

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Shield laws are state laws that protect journalists from being forced to disclose confidential information or sources in court. Only one state, Wyoming, does not have a shield law. The Branzburg test was a Supreme Court case that determined that reporters do not have an absolute privilege to refuse to testify before a grand jury. The USA PATRIOT Act is a federal law that expanded the government's surveillance powers in response to the 9/11 attacks. The First Amendment protects freedom of the press, but does not specifically address privilege for journalists to withhold information in court.

State Laws in 49 States Affording Privilege to Journalists to Not