Washington, D.C. — Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Sara Jacobs (CA-51) today introduced bipartisan legislation to restore and protect press access at the Pentagon, reversing months of Secretary Hegseth’s efforts to restrict independent reporting.

“A free press makes our country better, and the new Pentagon media restrictions are not wise. I was stationed at the Pentagon twice and saw firsthand that credentialed reporters had access to hallways, cafeterias and designated press areas, not offices or classified areas with sensitive national security information. I’m joining Rep. Jacobs on this bipartisan legislation to restore reasonable press access, protect an independent credentialing process and ensure future changes receive appropriate congressional oversight,” said Rep. Bacon.

“Muzzling the Pentagon’s independent press corps blinds Congress and the American people to what’s happening in our name and with our money. Asking our military leaders tough questions and holding them accountable – especially during times of conflict – is a basic, but critical part of our democracy. Without transparency, the American people can’t trust they’re getting the truth, not propaganda, or that the military is following the rule of law. Our bipartisan bill will help restore press access at the Pentagon, so we can maintain transparency, accountability, and oversight,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs.

The legislation would:

• Restore press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible prior to the 2025 restrictions, including the “Correspondents’ Corridor”
• Renew unescorted press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible without an escort prior to the 2025 restrictions
• Require the Secretary to ensure the integrity of the process to issue to reporters a Pentagon credential, ensuring the security review process is conducted by career officials in the Pentagon Force Protection Agency without unnecessary delays or political influence
• Prohibit any changes to press access at the Pentagon, including the designation of press workspaces, access areas, and press credentials, without prior congressional consultation

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