A coalition of media companies from across the country has filed a lawsuit against the State of Tennessee, challenging a recently enacted law they argue hinders press freedom and public access to law enforcement activity.
Among the plaintiffs are major media organizations that own television stations and newspapers in Knoxville, including the parent companies of WVLT, WBIR, WATE, and the Knoxville News Sentinel.
The legislation, which took effect on July 1, makes it a misdemeanor offense to come within 25 feet of a law enforcement officer while they are carrying out official duties. The law applies in a wide range of situations — from traffic stops to public safety responses — and restricts anyone, including journalists, from approaching officers during those moments, regardless of their intent…