Legal Definitions - Press Clause

The Press Clause is a part of the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. It states that "Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom... of the press."

This means that the government cannot pass laws that limit or control what the press can say or publish. The press has the right to report on news and events without fear of punishment or censorship.

For example, if a newspaper wants to write an article critical of the government, they have the right to do so without fear of being punished or silenced. Similarly, if a journalist wants to report on a controversial topic, they have the right to do so without being censored.

The Press Clause is important because it helps to ensure that the press can act as a watchdog over the government and hold those in power accountable. It also helps to protect the public's right to know and to access information about important issues.