CA AB1544

Prohibits judicial officers, peace officers, and law enforcement from barring authorized media representatives from entering courtrooms, court facilities, or other locations where public court proceedings are held

Applies to representatives of news services, online news services, newspapers, radio stations, and television stations or networks

Violations are subject to civil penalties under Civil Code Section 52.1 (the Tom Bane Civil Rights Act)

Media must still comply with court rules and orders while exercising access rights

Amends Penal Code Section 409.7, which already protects media access to closed areas during protests, demonstrations, and emergency field command posts