A coalition of media organizations, including Tennessee Silence Lookout, is contesting new legislation that makes it a crime to approach law enforcement officers within 25 feet after being instructed to move away.

This “buffer” law outlines circumstances under which journalists and others could face arrest and misdemeanor charges. Situations could involve traffic stops, active investigations, or instances deemed a “continuous and immediate threat to public safety.” Notably, the law does not require any intention to disrupt police activities, allowing officers to decide when to order reporters and photographers to leave.

The implications for journalists and news organizations in exercising their First Amendment rights are significant, according to the lawsuit. It argues that this legislation could allow law enforcement to bar journalists—and the public—from covering a broad spectrum of events important to the community, including parades, protests, arrests, and accident scenes.

The law empowers officers equally against reporters covering news in any public space, be it parks or sidewalks. The lawsuit calls for a ruling that the law infringes upon First and Fourth Amendment rights and seeks to block the law, which was enacted on July 1.

Along with the Nashville Banner, Gannett, Scripps Media, and Tegna are involved in the case, represented by Paul McAdoo and Grayson Clary from the Press Reporters Committee. This organization has previously secured temporary relief against similar laws in Louisiana and Indiana.