Missouri legislation · 2026 Regular Session
Missouri HB2918: Establishes the "Cronkite Journalistic Standards and New Voices Act" to protect the freedom of press in school-sponsored media
Status: In committee, March 12, 2026
What the bill says
To amend chapters 171 and 173, RSMo, by adding thereto two new sections relating to student journalists. Section A. Chapters 171 and 173, RSMo, are amended by adding thereto two new sections, to be known as sections 171.200 and 173.1551, to read as follows: 171.200. 1. This section and section 173.1551 shall be known and may be cited as the "Cronkite Journalistic Standards and New Voices Act". 2. As used in this section, the following terms mean: (1) "Cronkite Journalistic Standards", the following standards required of a news source: (a) The news source adheres to the objectivity norm, which.
From the amended text:
To amend chapters 171 and 173, RSMo, by adding thereto two new sections relating to student journalists. Section A. Chapters 171 and 173, RSMo, are amended by adding thereto two new sections, to be known as sections 171.200 and 173.1551, to read as follows: 171.200. 1. This section and section 173.1551 shall be known and may be cited as the "Cronkite Journalistic Standards and New Voices Act". 2. As used in this section, the following terms mean: (1) "Cronkite Journalistic Standards", the following standards required of a news source: (a) The news source adheres to the objectivity norm, which b. Prioritizing verification over speed; c. Ensuring any personal imprint on facts being reported is minimal; and d. Serving the public rather than the newsroom brand; (b) At least fifty-one percent of the material in the news source constitutes "news", defined as material that presents only facts without hearsay or anonymous quotes, relies only on sources that have been verified, presents both sides of a position, and excludes any language that colors the perception of the consumer; (c) Commentary and editorial material constitute ten percent or less of the news source; (d) Any commentary in the news section of the news source is clearly identified and separated from the news article or material; EXPLANATION -- Matter enclosed in bold-faced brackets [thus] …