A three-judge panel on the highest federal court in the Western states ruled that Idaho had violated the First Amendment by enforcing a “process-first” policy that resulted in a blackout of new court pleadings when they are received.
In clear and undiluted language, the Ninth Circuit addressed and rejected the arguments against public access advanced by Idaho and other states in fighting cases brought by Courthouse News.
“The right of public access to judicial proceedings ensures that the individual citizen can effectively participate in and contribute to our republican system of self-government. The right therefore falls within the heart of the First Amendment’s coverage,” wrote Judge Margaret McKeown.
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