The Freedom of Information Committee of the SPJ said the "Sunshine Award" is for those who make important contributions in the area of open government. Grassley's contributions were "most worthy of this recognition," according to the awards coordinator.
Last November, Grassley petitioned Chief Justice William Rehnquist to reconsider the decision to ban television coverage of the Florida election argument before the Supreme Court. Grassley made his appeal with Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York. Rehnquist responded by saying the court would release a copy of the audiotape after the argument because of "intense public interest" in the case.
Grassley and Schumer have been outspoken advocates for broadcast coverage of what goes on in federal courts, including the Supreme Court. Their Sunshine in the Courtroom Act would allow the photographing, electronic recording, broadcasting and televising of federal court proceedings. Grassley conducted a hearing last fall to draw attention to the his bill. KCCI-TV's news director, Dave Busiek, testified. Earlier this year, Grassley and Schumer reintroduced their legislation. It has not yet been taken up by the Judiciary Committee.
"Letting the sun shine in is the best way to maintain confidence in the federal judiciary, which holds tremendous power over our lives," Grassley said. "The Founders wanted the public to have access to courtroom proceedings. In modern times, the Founders intentions can be met by letting broadcasters open the courtroom to public view. Cameras in the courtroom would bring the federal judiciary into the 21st century."
Today, cameras are banned in all federal district courts. Only two appellate courts ? the 2nd and 9th circuits ? allow cameras in the courtroom. All 50 states allow coverage of some appellate proceedings, but ten states bar cameras in trial courtrooms. Those states are New York, Utah, South Dakota, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi and Nebraska.