credentialling bloggers: 13 examples

New York City became the latest example of an institution choosing to credential bloggers this week, or at least mentioning them in a policy.  But they're not the only one--just the 13th example among those cited on this blog:

1. The White House credentials bloggers for formal news conferences.
2. The Supreme Court sometimes credentials bloggers--on a case-by-case basis, and with specific requirements for having covered earlier progressions in a case currently before the Court.
3. Target, on the other hand, "does not participate with non-traditional media outlets."  No matter what you say.
4. Political campaigns have reshaped their policies to treat bloggers as press.
5. In this roundup, see 8 cases where the United Nations, the federal court in Washington, PBS, the California legislature (but not the U.S. Congress's press galleries), sports teams, the National Press Club, and Chrysler have made policy on admitting bloggers as press, most favorable. The Press Club membership category doesn't provide a credential, however.

Of course, just because some bloggers have been admitted doesn't mean all will be. But keep your eye on these precedents, all helping to normalize blogger coverage--and the need for you to offer them resources to cover your organization.

Related posts:  EFF's legal guide for bloggers (includes an FAQ on when protections for reporters apply to bloggers)

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