Currently, cameras are banned in all federal district courts. At the same time, cameras are permitted in the courts of 48 states. Grassley has said that the federal judiciary possesses enormous power, and openness and accountability should apply to this branch of the government, as well. When our judicial system was established, trials were meant to be highly public events. Citizens were able to attend trials and directly access the judicial process.
Life today is obviously much different, and broadcast coverage of trials is required.
A pilot program was conducted between 1991 and 1994, where cameras were allowed in selected federal courtrooms. Participating judges subsequently recommended that cameras be allowed in the courtroom. The federal courts' governing body, the Judicial Conference, is opposed to allowing cameras in courtrooms.