Pentagon press rules spark credential standoff
The Pentagon Press Association said Wednesday that talks with the Defense Department over new media‑credential rules have stalled, warning the policy threatens to revoke access for reporters who publish unapproved information, including controlled unclassified information, and would require written acknowledgment of DoD policies. The September memo also signals plans to move outlets from their Pentagon workspaces and sets a signature deadline next week; a Pentagon spokesman says the department negotiated in good faith, dropped a requirement to 'agree' to the policy, and is not requiring pre‑clearance of stories.
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📌 Key Facts
- DoD’s September memo asks Pentagon reporters to acknowledge they will not disclose classified or 'controlled unclassified information,' with credentials at risk for 'unauthorized' disclosure or access.
- The memo states 'DoW information must be approved before public release … even if it is unclassified,' and outlets were asked to sign revised guidelines by next week.
- After negotiations, DoD removed a requirement to 'express agreement' but still wants written affirmation of 'understanding' the policies.
- The Pentagon Press Association says the policy chills sources and could punish seeking unapproved but unclassified information; it also flags a plan to relocate media from dedicated Pentagon workspaces.
- Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said on X that DoD has engaged in good‑faith talks and is not requiring reporters to clear their stories with the department.