CA SB98

Allows duly authorized representatives of news services, online news services, newspapers, and radio or television stations to enter closed areas around emergency command posts and demonstrations involving constitutionally protected activity.

Prohibits peace officers and law enforcement from intentionally assaulting, interfering with, or obstructing authorized media representatives who are gathering or processing information for public communication.

Prevents authorized media representatives from being cited for failure to disperse, curfew violations, or obstruction of a peace officer (Section 148) while gathering information in closed areas.

Requires that detained media representatives be permitted to immediately contact a supervisory officer to challenge the detention, unless circumstances make it impossible.

Does not prevent law enforcement from enforcing other applicable laws against persons engaged in unlawful activity and does not create new criminal liability.