This bill, the Protecting Pentagon Press Access Act, would restore press access inside the Pentagon to the areas and working spaces that were open to credentialed reporters on May 22, 2025. It would restore unescorted access for appropriately credentialed journalists to areas that did not require escorts on that date. The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to ensure the Pentagon Facilities Alternative Credential process is handled by the Pentagon Force Protection Agency, to be carried out by career officials without unnecessary delays or political influence, and to be timely, determinative, and not subject to reversal by political appointees. The bill also says changes to press work spaces, access areas, or credentials at the Pentagon cannot be made without prior consultation with the House and Senate Committees on Armed Services. The bill refers to changes and memoranda issued in 2025 that restricted press activities and working locations.
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The bill says press access inside the Pentagon supports accurate and independent reporting, helps citizens understand defense policies and spending, and aids congressional oversight. It cites historical practice of allowing reporters to work inside the Pentagon and states that restoring access will promote timely, thorough reporting about the Department of Defense.
No publicly available information.