CT lawmakers hearing testimony Wednesday on bill proposing to prohibit the news media from publishing images or videos of a fatal accident scene before a family or household member is notified of the fatality.
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We have submitted testimony opposing the bill. Although we acknowledge the sensitivity of photos and videos of fatal accidents, it sweeps too broadly and would restrain too much constitutionally protected speech while imposing an unjustifiable prior restraint on the press.
The bill would also limits the press's ability to publish constitutionally permitted photos or videos of police at scenes, including at scenes of accidents that were caused by police pursuits. In CT, on average, 3 people per year die in accidents resulting from police pursuits.
