Dominican Republic Rejects Plan to Exclude Digital Media from Free Speech Bill

Dominican Republic Legislators Reject Proposal to Exclude Digital Media from Freedom of Expression Bill Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – A recent proposal to exclude digital media from a new freedom of expression bill has been met with resistance from lawmakers. The proposal, put forth by jurist Namphi Rodríguez, suggests that the bill should focus solely on traditional media outlets. However, members of the legislative commission tasked with reviewing the bill strongly disagree. "My personal opinion is that digital media must be included," stated one legislator during an interview. "It's crucial to have a unified approach to ensure comprehensive regulation and avoid creating two separate laws." The video shows legislators from both the Senate and the House of Representatives expressing their opposition to Rodriguez's proposal. Representatives from the Dominican College of Journalists also voiced their concerns. The commission plans to hold public hearings to further discuss the matter. The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of regulating freedom of expression in the digital age in the Dominican Republic. The commission's decision to proceed with a comprehensive bill that includes digital media demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that all forms of media operate within a clear legal framework.