Bill · S.Res. 715· Senate(119-SRES-715)
A resolution recognizing escalating threats to freedom of the press and freedom of speech worldwide, including increasing harm to journalists reporting in conflict zones and under repressive regimes, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in upholding democracy, fostering economic prosperity, and keeping the public informed, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in supporting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of "World Press Freedom Day" on May 3, 2026.
- Introduced
- 4/30/2026
- Last activity
- 4/30/2026 — Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (text: CR S2177-2178)
- Sponsored by
- Brian Schatz
- Cosponsors
- - 8 - 0
- Introduced
- In Committee
A Senate resolution is the Senate speaking for itself: stating a position, honouring someone, or setting its own rules. Adopting it is the whole process. Once the Senate agrees to it, it is officially the Senate's word; it is not a law, so the House and the President have no part in it.
What this bill would do
This resolution recognizes the increasing global threats to freedom of the press and freedom of speech. It highlights the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones and under repressive regimes. The text reaffirms that a free press is essential for democracy, economic prosperity, and keeping the public informed. It also commemorates "World Press Freedom Day" on May 3, 2026. Additionally, the Senate declares the importance of press freedom in exposing corruption and ensuring government accountability. Finally, it calls for the release of wrongfully detained journalists and urges the President and Secretary of State to protect journalists' safety.
Yes· 3 of 8
Does this protect the individual right to speak freely?+10
The resolution recognizes escalating threats to freedom of speech and calls for its protection.
Does this protect what people are allowed to say in public life?+10
The resolution reaffirms the fundamental importance of freedom of the press and freedom of expression.
Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see?+8
The resolution declares that a free press enhances public accountability and transparency of governments.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Increased Accountability and Transparency: The resolution declares that a free press helps expose corruption and enhances public accountability of governments at all levels (Resolution Section 1).
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Public Information and Safety: The resolution states that a free press disseminates information that is essential to improving public health and safety (Resolution Section 1E).
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Support for Democracy and Human Rights: The text reaffirms that freedom of the press is a priority for the United States Government in supporting democracy, human rights, and good governance (Resolution Intro).
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Protection for Journalists: The resolution calls for the President and Secretary of State to preserve leadership on issues relating to journalist safety (Resolution Section 10A).
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Justice for American Journalists: The resolution calls on the administration to transparently investigate and bring to justice those who attack or threaten American journalists (Resolution Section 10B).
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- No negative impacts or burdens are explicitly identified within the provided text.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Governance And Ideology
- Improves Freedom Of Speech+10Improves Government Transparency+8Improves Privacy Rights+5Improves Electoral Process+2
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Freedom Of Speech+10Improves Voting Rights+2
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Improves Diplomatic Engagement+5
- Education And Technology
- Improves Data Privacy+4
- 4/30/2026
- Submitted in Senate
- Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (text: CR S2177-2178)
- 8 Cosponsors added.
One bill Congress.gov lists as related to this one — companions in the other chamber, earlier versions, and bills this one absorbed or was folded into.
Michael BennetDemocrat · Colorado
Christopher CoonsDemocrat · Delaware
Timothy KaineDemocrat · Virginia
Jeff MerkleyDemocrat · Oregon
Adam SchiffDemocrat · California
Chris Van HollenDemocrat · Maryland
Ron WydenDemocrat · Oregon
Peter WelchDemocrat · Vermont