On February 23, 2026, the Maryland House of Delegates passed a groundbreaking bill aimed at strengthening media ethics and protections in the state. The bill, known as the Maryland Media Integrity Act, was introduced in response to growing concerns about the erosion of journalistic standards and the rise of misinformation in the digital age.The Maryland Media Integrity Act includes provisions that require media organizations to disclose any conflicts of interest that may compromise their reporting, such as financial ties to sources or advertisers. It also prohibits the dissemination of knowingly false information by media outlets and establishes a process for individuals to file complaints about inaccurate or unethical reporting.In addition to these ethics provisions, the bill also includes measures to protect journalists from harassment and intimidation. It makes it a criminal offense to threaten or intimidate journalists in order to prevent them from reporting on a particular issue, and establishes penalties for individuals or organizations found guilty of such behavior.The bill has garnered widespread support from journalists, media organizations, and advocacy groups, who see it as a much-needed step towards ensuring the integrity of the press in Maryland. Delegate Sarah Thompson, who sponsored the bill, praised its passage as a victory for democracy and free speech."Journalism is a crucial pillar of our democratic society, and it is essential that we protect the integrity of the press in Maryland," said Delegate Thompson. "The Maryland Media Integrity Act will help ensure that journalists can do their jobs without fear of reprisal or interference, and that the public can trust the information they receive from the media."The bill will now move to the Maryland Senate for consideration, where it is expected to face further debate and amendments before potentially being signed into law by Governor John Smith. If passed, the Maryland Media Integrity Act will be a landmark piece of legislation that sets a new standard for media ethics and protections in the state.