New York City Considers Stricter Rules for Press Passes

The New York City Council is reviewing a new bill aimed at tightening regulations around official press passes. This initiative intends to strip press credentials from individuals misusing them for purposes not related to journalism.

During an interview on FOX 5 New York’s “Good Day New York,” City Council Speaker Julie Menin explained the bill’s relevance. Sponsored by Councilmember Banks, the bill targets incidents where non-journalists use press passes, such as the notable case involving Luigi Mangione supporters who drew attention with their city-issued press passes at a courthouse hearing.

Back in May, a group of Mangione’s supporters presented their press passes to the New York Post, sparking controversy. Ashley Rojas, one supporter, made inflammatory statements about UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, whom Mangione was convicted of killing in December 2024. Another supporter, Lena Weissbrot, controversially compared Thompson’s actions to those of infamous figures.

These individuals should not have received press passes, stressed New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

The proposed legislation, introduced and backed by council members Chris Banks, Carmen De La Rosa, and Inna Vernikov, would allow the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) to revoke or suspend press passes based on “preponderance of the evidence.” This marks a significant shift from the existing requirement of “clear and convincing evidence” to revoke press credentials.

Menin, previously a commissioner at MOME, emphasized the necessity of reforming press practices to ensure only legitimate journalists receive credentials. The bill’s goal is to refine these practices and enhance the credibility of journalism within the city.

Mangione, who admitted to federal charges earlier this year, is also seeking to have state charges dismissed, claiming double jeopardy. His trial in New York is currently postponed due to these legal arguments.

The incident, involving the shooting of Thompson, a Minnesotan father, took place on December 5, 2024. Surveillance footage captured Mangione’s assault, which ended with his arrest at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after witnesses identified him.