Bill would allow cameras in courtrooms

Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa) has introduced legislation that would allow television cameras and radio broadcasts in federal courtrooms.

The measure would apply to federal courts at all levels, including appellate courts and the Supreme Court. King, who has introduced the bill in previous sessions of Congress, said it would increase transparency and public engagement with the judicial system.

{mosads}”From the founding of our nation we have opened up the machinery of government to the public,” King said in a statement. “Cameras make for a more open and transparent government along with a more educated public.”

The bill would provide an exception for camera usage if a judge determines that a recording would violate due process rights.

Lawmakers of both parties and C-SPAN have pushed for the Supreme Court to allow cameras, especially for high-profile cases. But the Supreme Court has maintained that televising the proceedings would politicize them and create distractions.