The First Amendment's guarantee of an independent press that may freely collect and disseminate news is often considered the bedrock of American democracy. Yet more than a century and a half after the "New York Herald's" John Nugent became the first American reporter jailed for refusing to identify a confidential source, reporters continue to face difficult choices when attempting to protect sources and preserve the confidentiality of the reporting process. In the wake of several recent high-profile cases in which reporters have been fined or jailed, Congress and state legislatures have considered measures that would add to existing protections for reporters. This article discusses the source, scope, and history of the reporter's privilege, as well as recent cases and legislative developments relating to it.