Perry signs journalist shield law

AUSTIN (AP) - Gov. Rick Perry signed legislation protecting journalists from having to reveal certain confidential sources in court.

Texas becomes the 37th state with what is known as a "shield law." The new Free Flow of Information Act takes effect immediately and grants a qualified privilege to journalists.

Members of the media will be able to protect sources and in many cases not testify or produce notes and tapes in court gathered while acting as a journalist.

Supporters said the law will encourage whistleblowers to come forward and reveal government corruption, public safety hazards and corporate malfeasance.

Michael Schneider with the Texas Association of Broadcasters Wednesday welcomed the shield law.

Schneider said he believes the law will encourage whistleblowers to provide info to journalists that potentially results in more serious crimes getting prosecuted.

The shield law, known as the Free Flow of Information Act, is HB670.