Congressman Deutch (FL-21) has signed on as an original cosponsor of H.R. 917, the Sunshine in the Courtroom Act of 2013.

Thanks to certain media outlets such as C-SPAN, it is possible for the American people to follow the work of and gain in-depth insight into the executive and legislative branches of government. However, it is often difficult for the public to follow judicial proceedings due to the lack of video coverage of certain briefings, cases, and events. This bill will allow judges at all federal levels to open their courtrooms to television cameras and radio broadcasts, unless such action would violate a party’s due process right. Witnesses are also given the right to request that their face and voice are disguised in order to protect their identity.

The televising of important courtroom events will give the American public increased transparency into the judicial branch of government, and improve accountability of its procedures.

To read more about H.R. 917, click here.