Reply #50: Let's get pragmatic... [View All]

According to the bill, reporters must provide the licensing board proof of:
"Good moral character" and demonstrate they have industry "ethics standards acceptable to the board."
No one who's ever been busted in a protest, or had other legal trouble, or has ethics other than that of the business community who will undoubtedly form the licensing board. Sounds neutral and fair to me. And certainly no pot smokers, skateboarders, illegal aliens, or other criminals.

Possession of a degree in journalism or other degree substantially equivalent.
Yes, we all know what a difference this makes. No one in America without a degree has a thought worth thinking, and the process of getting a degree virtually guarantees one's eternal rightness.

Not less than 3 years experience as a reporter or any other relevant background information.
No citizen reporters. Ever. And you can't really get started unless you have a big organization to cover for you for three years. That will keep things honest, giving them time to learn what pays before getting to actually say anything.

Awards or recognition related to being a reporter.
Absolutely. I don't want to hear about any critique, I just want to know which industry groups gave them memberships

Three or more writing samples.
There's that "no citizen reporters" again. Love it.

Reporters will also have to pay an application and registration fee.
Good. They have to be in it for the money, and have free bucks to spend. The fee should be around ten grand or so, to keep the riff-raff out, and it shouldn't be good for long, maybe one year.

The only thing missing is that the business and investment community ought to be able to go through their entire online life and veto them for anything they disapprove of. Other than that detail, it seems like a fine idea.