The Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma will soon have a journalist shield law on the books.

The Cherokee Nation Council passed a bill that protects journalists from revealing confidential sources in tribal court. The bill doesn't apply to defamation, libel or slander cases or in cases where no other witnesses are available.

“This would give journalists the freedom from testifying they enjoy in 40 other states across the country,” council member Chuck Hoskin Jr said, The Tahlequah Daily Press reported.. “I believe it will enhance our journalists' efforts if they have no fear of being hauled into court to disclose sources. I believe it will enhance our free press if we pass it.”

The bill passed unanimously and it will be signed by Chief Bill John Baker on Thursday, The Tulsa World reported.

Get the Story:
CN council adopts journalist shield law (The Tahlequah Daily Press 4/17)
Cherokee Nation Tribal Council approves shield law for journalists (The Tulsa World 4/18)