In a move that has raised concerns about press freedom and government transparency, Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins has implemented new rules prohibiting reporters from accessing the House chamber floor.
This decision, made without public explanation, marks a significant departure from longstanding practices and has drawn criticism from journalists and lawmakers alike.
Details of the New Rule
Under the new directive, reporters are no longer permitted on the House chamber floor during sessions. Previously, journalists had access to a designated area within the chamber, allowing them to observe proceedings closely.
Now, they are confined to the public gallery overlooking the chamber, limiting their ability to monitor legislative activities effectively. Additionally, the rule restricts photography to specific angles, primarily capturing the backs of legislators’ heads, further hindering comprehensive coverage.
Comparison of Press Access: Previous vs. Current Rules
| Aspect | Previous Access | Current Access |
|---|---|---|
| Chamber Floor Access | Allowed in designated area | Prohibited; reporters confined to public gallery |
| Photography | Permitted from various angles | Restricted to specific angles, limiting views |
| Proximity to Legislators | Close interaction possible | Limited due to distance from the floor |
| Real-Time Reporting | Enabled through direct observation | Hindered by physical separation |
Reactions from the Press and Lawmakers
The Kansas Press Association has expressed significant concern over the new restrictions. Emily Bradbury, the association’s executive director, emphasized that real-time access to legislative debates and proceedings is crucial for accurate and transparent reporting.
She stated, “The press serves a vital function in our system of government. To limit our access, you’re limiting the access of those who rely on us to cover the news.”
House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, a Democrat from Lenexa, also criticized the move, highlighting that freedom of the press is fundamental to democracy. He remarked, “Limiting journalists’ access to the very people elected to make laws for Kansans is troubling.
The press is here to shine a light on what is happening under the dome — they belong on the House floor alongside our lawmakers.”
Speaker Hawkins’ Stance on the Press
Speaker Hawkins, a Republican from Wichita, has previously expressed skepticism towards the media. In May 2024, he accused the press of bias, claiming they would print anything Democratic Governor Laura Kelly wanted while ignoring his perspectives.
He stated, “The governor can go out and say whatever she wants. We can rebut it, but that doesn’t mean they’re going to print it, and they don’t.”
Additionally, during an April 2024 debate over tax policy, Hawkins criticized the media for using “the most salacious headline that they can get.” These sentiments suggest a strained relationship between the Speaker and the press, potentially influencing the recent decision to restrict media access.
Implications for Government Transparency
The restriction of press access to the House chamber floor has significant implications for government transparency. By limiting journalists’ ability to observe and report on legislative proceedings in real-time, the public’s insight into the legislative process is diminished.
This move could set a concerning precedent, potentially leading to further limitations on press freedoms in the future.
The decision by Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins to ban reporters from the chamber floor represents a notable shift in the state’s approach to press access and government transparency.
Without a clear explanation for the change, concerns about the implications for democratic processes and the public’s right to be informed remain at the forefront of this developing situation.