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A free and independent press is key to any well-functioning democracy. Watchdog journalism, in particular, provides a vital check on — among other ills — governmental corruption, waste, ineptitude and abuses of power.

But reporters rarely expose wrongdoing on their own. Usually, they need honest sources and whistle-blowers within the government to provide them with the information needed to tell the story that will inform the public. Without good sources, even the best investigative attempt will come up empty.

That helps to explain why a proposed piece of federal legislation, the Protect Reporters From Exploitative State Spying Act, is so necessary.

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The PRESS Act, as it is called, would protect reporters, social media companies and providers of........

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