Keeping weapons out of newsrooms

By Jay Bender

For many years I have advocated that newspapers implement measures to keep strangers out of newsrooms.  My initial advocacy was provoked by my observations around the state that many newsrooms seemed to allow anyone off the street to walk through.

My initial concerns had to do with protecting source material and sources from prying eyes, and reporters and editors from subpoenas.

Times have changed.  Newsrooms and reporters have become targets for threats and assassination.

And the state of South Carolina has been feverish in its desire to let citizens carry concealed weapons.  The hypocrisy of the General Assembly in this area is evident in the statute that prohibits the carrying of concealed weapons in the capitol, and the metal detectors at the doors.

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