The city of Chicago has just taken a big step forward in recognizing that “the media” isn’t just for the permanently-employed pros in radio, TV and newspaper. According to Chicago Reader, Chicago’s City Council voted to amend its rules regarding press passes. (Shouldn’t they be called “media passes” by now?) Freelancers and bloggers can get a pass, as long as they can prove they’re published by a news media organization. And, lest that smack of old media, the change defines “news media” as “being defined more expansively to include news in an ‘electronic format.'” So, while this doesn’t mean any blogger can get access, it does loosen the rules to those who cover city news in non-traditional ways. One other bit of good news – the council is also doing away with its draconian requirement that media members be fingerprinted. (Via Nieman Lab)
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