On February 21, 2026, Rhode Island made a significant step in bolstering media law protections by passing legislation aimed at safeguarding the rights of journalists in the state. The new law, which was championed by press freedom advocates and lawmakers, is seen as a crucial measure to uphold the principles of a free and independent press.The legislation, known as the Rhode Island Journalist Protection Act, includes several key provisions that aim to protect journalists from harassment, intimidation, and other forms of interference while carrying out their work. One of the central elements of the law is the establishment of harsher penalties for individuals who threaten, intimidate, or physically harm journalists in retaliation for their reporting.In addition, the Rhode Island Journalist Protection Act also includes provisions aimed at safeguarding the confidentiality of journalists' sources. The law now makes it illegal for law enforcement agencies to compel journalists to reveal their sources, except in cases where there is a clear and imminent threat to public safety.Furthermore, the legislation also strengthens protections for journalists covering protests and other public demonstrations. Under the new law, journalists are granted certain exemptions from dispersal orders issued by law enforcement during protests, ensuring that they can continue their reporting without fear of unjustified interference.The passage of the Rhode Island Journalist Protection Act has been widely celebrated by journalists, press freedom organizations, and civil rights advocates. In a statement following the bill's signing, Amanda Parker, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Press Association, hailed the legislation as a "vital step in safeguarding the essential role of journalists in our democracy."The new law comes at a time when press freedom is facing increasing threats across the country, with journalists frequently coming under attack for their reporting. By enacting the Rhode Island Journalist Protection Act, the state has signaled its commitment to upholding the rights of journalists and preserving the integrity of a free and independent press.