Opinion: Marsy’s Law needs to be amended to keep the public better informed on crime

Police agencies are misinterpreting a victim rights law, and it isn’t helping the victims or the public

This opinion piece reflects the point of view of the writer. Cameren Boatner is a reporting intern for the Student Press Law Center. Students have a right to know when a crime occurs in their backyard – especially when the crime is sexual violence. But a law intended to protect victims is leaving the public… Continue reading Opinion: Marsy’s Law needs to be amended to keep the public better informed on crime

Student and professional journalists write op-eds for Student Press Freedom Day

In 2019, nearly 70 student newsrooms wrote editorials as part of the Year of the Student Journalist. For Student Press Freedom Day, we've relaunched the op-ed campaign for pieces on the importance of student press freedom. High school, college and professional journalists are answering the call. Don't see your name on the list below? Email Danielle Dieterich… Continue reading Student and professional journalists write op-eds for Student Press Freedom Day

Penn State’s Collegian stands by editorial criticizing Barstool, despite backlash from fans

(Aabha Vora / Daily Collegian)

PENNSYLVANIA — Editors at the Daily Collegian are defending a recent editorial criticizing Barstool Sports President Dave Portnoy for comments he made toward a Penn State dean. The student journalist who authored the editorial received substantial personal attacks and pushback on social media. How it started The eventual series of conflicts stem from a Sept.… Continue reading Penn State’s Collegian stands by editorial criticizing Barstool, despite backlash from fans

Ask SPLC: Does including “in my opinion” protect me from a libel or defamation suit?

Q: Does including “in my opinion” protect me from a libel or defamation suit? A: Including the phrase “in my opinion” — for example, “In my opinion, the coach is a cheater” — does not create an automatic shield to libel. Neither does simply reprinting what someone else has said by saying something like, “‘The coach is a… Continue reading Ask SPLC: Does including “in my opinion” protect me from a libel or defamation suit?