In a groundbreaking move for press freedom in Utah, state lawmakers have passed new legislation aimed at protecting journalists' sources. The bill, which was signed into law by Governor Sarah Johnson on Thursday, has been praised by media organizations as a crucial step towards ensuring the integrity of investigative reporting in the state.Under the new law, journalists in Utah will now have the right to protect the confidentiality of their sources, even in legal proceedings. This means that reporters can refuse to disclose the identities of their sources in court, protecting whistleblowers and others who provide important information to the media.The legislation comes in response to growing concerns about the safety and security of journalists and their sources. In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases in which reporters have faced legal repercussions for refusing to disclose their sources, leading to fears that the free flow of information could be jeopardized.Speaking about the new law, Governor Johnson said, "This legislation is a vital step in upholding the principles of a free press and protecting the important work of investigative journalists in our state. Journalists play a crucial role in holding the powerful accountable, and it is essential that they have the ability to protect their sources without fear of reprisal."The bill was introduced in the Utah State Legislature by Senator Emily Chen, who has been a vocal advocate for press freedom. Senator Chen said, "This law sends a clear message that Utah values the important role that journalists play in our society. By protecting journalists' sources, we are ensuring that the public has access to the information they need to make informed decisions and hold their leaders accountable."Media organizations, including the Utah Press Association and the Society of Professional Journalists, have welcomed the new legislation as a significant victory for press freedom. In a joint statement, they said, "We applaud the Utah State Legislature for taking this important step towards protecting the rights of journalists and their sources. This law will help to maintain the integrity and credibility of the media in our state, and ensure that investigative reporting can continue to thrive."The new legislation is set to come into effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to all journalists working in Utah. It represents a major win for press freedom advocates in the state and signals a commitment to upholding the principles of a free and independent media.