Civil Liberty Groups Urge House Committee to Allow Vote on Espionage Act Reform

A coalition of 19 organizations focused on civil liberties, press freedom, human rights, and whistleblower protection is urging the House Rules Committee to permit a Floor vote on an amendment to reform the Espionage Act. The amendment, introduced by Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), aims to protect journalists and whistleblowers from government overreach. The groups argue that the Espionage Act, a World War I-era law, is overly broad and threatens press freedom and the public’s right to know. The amendment seeks to align the Act with contemporary First Amendment standards and address due process issues faced by whistleblower defendants. The coalition’s letter highlights the urgent need for reform and calls for a meaningful debate on the issue. This push for reform comes amid ongoing debates surrounding the prosecution of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange and previous attempts by lawmakers to amend the Act.