Radio Host on the Hot Seat A Pennsylvania radio station is at the center of a key First Amendment case that carries significant possible consequences for the media. The case, Bartnicki vs. Vopper, before the court in December, involves a talk show host who aired an illegally intercepted cell phone conversation between teacher's union officials during a strike. Although the station received the tape from a third party, a federal wiretapping statute prohibits disclosure of illicitly obtained communications. The station contends an unfavorable ruling could have a chilling effect on journalists by forcing them to track down original sources of information to make sure it has been legally obtained. In Legal Services Corp. vs. Velazquez, before the court on Wednesday, the justices will consider whether Congress can prevent federally funded lawyers from using government money to challenge existing statutes.
Opponents say restrictions place an undue burden on the First Amendment protection of free speech.
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