The Department of Justice has issued a new rule to revert to older policies regarding obtaining information from the news media, which were in place prior to significant changes made in 2022. This new rule aims to balance freedom of the press with effective law enforcement by restricting when the government can use legal means, like subpoenas and search warrants, to access journalists' information. The policy protects journalists from these law enforcement tools unless there is substantial justification and necessary approval from high-ranking officials. Additionally, certain exceptions allow enforcements without prior notice under specific urgent circumstances.
Simple Explanation
The Department of Justice has changed some rules to make sure that police and the government can't just take reporters' secret information unless it's super important and special bosses say it's okay. They want to make sure that the news can do their job but also that everyone stays safe when something bad is happening.