Ige signs Act 24, allowing student journalists to receive professional press protection and 'real-world learning opportunities'

Government
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Act 24 establishes freedom of speech and press protections to student journalists in Hawaii’s public schools and at the University of Hawaii. | Adobe Stock

Hawaii's Gov. David Ige (D) signed legislation this week that will extend the press protection given to professional journalists to student journalists as well, offering guaranteed freedom of speech.

On his website, Ige announced the signing of  House Bill 1848 (Act 24), an extension of freedom of the press in Hawaii for student journalists across the state. Under Act 24, student journalists will receive the same rights to press protection that professional journalists are awarded, while also supporting student advisors from any retaliation brought about by the refusal to censor student journalists.

“One of my administration’s goals has been to provide students with the tools they need to be successful in their chosen careers,” Ige said on his website. “Providing student journalists with the same protections they’d have working in the industry gives them real-world learning opportunities and creates a more enhanced laboratory for learning.”

Following Ige's signature, the new law will go into effect immediately, providing student journalists with new opportunities, thanks to unbridled freedom of speech in the state.

“Our newest journalists should be encouraged to investigate, report and opine on the issues of today without concern that the school administration will censor the content of their work,” said State Sen. Karl Rhoads, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, according to the governor's website.