Pentagon Tightens Controls on press Access, Sparking First Amendment Concerns
The Pentagon has implemented new security measures considerably restricting journalist access to the building and requiring pre-approval for release of even unclassified information.A memo outlining the changes was sent to the Pentagon’s in-house press corps late Friday afternoon.
According to the memo,all Defense Department information,nonetheless of classification,must be approved by an “appropriate authorizing official” before public release to “safeguard” classified national security information. The rules extend to the “Department of War”-the recently adopted secondary name for the Department of Defense as part of a rebranding effort-which may only share controlled unclassified information with individuals who have a “lawful governmental purpose” and meet specific criteria. These criteria include a favorable security eligibility determination, signed non-disclosure agreements, and a demonstrated “need-to-know.”
Failure to comply with the new regulations could result in suspension or revocation of Pentagon access. Badge access can also be denied or revoked for individuals “reasonably steadfast to pose a security or safety risk” based on unauthorized access attempts or disclosure of classified or controlled unclassified information.
Beyond information control, the new rules impose further physical restrictions on reporters. large portions of the Pentagon building are now off-limits, and journalists will be required to be escorted when entering the building.
These changes represent the “latest effort” by current administration officials to limit reporter access, following earlier restrictions this year that largely confined reporters to press areas and the food court. Previously, Pentagon reporters with credentials enjoyed relatively unrestricted access to most areas of the building, excluding those requiring security clearances.
The restrictions have drawn swift criticism from press organizations. Mike Balsamo, president of the National Press Club, emphasized the vital role of Pentagon reporters in informing the public about defense spending and military operations. “If the news about our military must first be approved by the government, then the public is no longer getting autonomous reporting,” Balsamo stated. “It is getting only what officials want them to see. That should alarm every American.”
The Society of Professional Journalists has also called for the measure to be rescinded, labeling it an attempt “to muzzle the press and deny the American people the openness and accountability they deserve.” The institution characterized the policy as a violation of First Amendment rights, specifically “prior restraint,” and warned of a “disturbing pattern of growing government hostility toward transparency and democratic norms.”
