RCFP letter supports request for guidance on California court access during pandemic
On June 18, the Reporters Committee urged the policymaking body of the California courts to issue guidance that would ensure public and press access to judicial proceedings during the COVID-19 pandemic and other future emergencies.
In a letter to the Judicial Council of California, the Reporters Committee supported court access recommendations recently offered by the First Amendment Coalition and California affiliates of the American Civil Liberties Union and Public Justice.
“The Reporters Committee joins the Coalition in respectfully requesting that the Judicial Council issue guidance for courts on how best to provide public access to their proceedings during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Reporters Committee’s letter said. “The guidance recommended by the Coalition will help ensure that the press and public can observe California Superior Court proceedings that the First Amendment requires be open to the public.”