Judicial Conference Extends COVID-Era Exception to Broadcasting Policy for 120 Days
The Judicial Conference of the U.S., the federal court system's policymaking body, extended the pandemic-era exception to its broadcasting policy by another 120 days, following President Joe Biden's move to end the emergency conditions put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The policy allows the use of teleconferencing to enable the public and media members to listen in on civil and bankruptcy court proceedings while access to the courthouse is restricted.
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Even before the president's move, courthouses across the country have conducted more and more in-person proceedings, though nearly all courts still conduct some proceedings by video, the Judicial Conference said. The move to extend the broadcasting policy by 120 days is meant "to alleviate any concern that the temporary exception could end abruptly" and "help courts maintain flexibility as they transition to post pandemic operations." The committee that studies this topic will continue to look at the broadcasting court proceedings as it relates to access for all parties involved and to prepare for future emergencies "that restrict access to courthouses."