Supporting expanded court coverage

The Society of Professional Journalists Maryland Pro Chapter will testify in favor of House Bill 77 during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on Feb. 5 at 1 p.m.

The bill, sponsored by Republican Del. Michael Smigiel, would open criminal sentencing hearings to audio and video recording.

Smigiel introduced a similar bill last year. That bill died in committee.

Jim Lee, Carroll County Times editor and state chairman of SPJ's Sunshine Committee, will testify on behalf of the chapter.

In the past, this chapter has supported opening up all criminal and civil hearings to audio and video recordings. Such a move would provide greater access and accountability and put radio and television reporters on an even playing field with print reporters (not to mention allow those of us who are in print the ability to enhance our own court coverage).

Smigiel's bill is not perfect but it's a good first step.

— Bryan P. Sears
chapter president