Licensing Journalists is a Dangerous Trend

Written By: Jason Stverak  |  Posted: Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010

On May 11th, Michigan State Senator Bruce Patterson introduced legislation to license reporters to ensure they're credible and vet them for "good moral character." Patterson told Fox News that some reporters covering state politics don't know what they're talking about and they're working for publications he's never heard of, so he wants to install a process that'll help him and the general public figure out which reporters to trust. In his bill, reporters must provide the licensing board proof of:

· "Good moral character" and demonstrate they have industry "ethics standards acceptable to the board."
· Possession of a degree in journalism or other degree substantially equivalent.
· Not less than 3 years experience as a reporter or any other relevant background information.
· Awards or recognition related to being a reporter.
· Three or more writing samples.

Sign into your account to read the rest of this article. »