California targets paparazzi

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a former movie star, signed a bill into law that makes it a crime for paparazzi to drive recklessly to get a shot of a celebrity. The California Newspaper Publishers Association protested the legislation, saying it subjects photojournalists to special prosecution for what is already an illegal act.

CNPA general counsel Tom Newston explain in an interview with The Wrap:

We don't deny there’s a big problem, we just think that this particular bill is overly inclusive. I don't represent paparazzi, I represent photojournalists and these folks drive cars. Under this law though, if you harbor an intent to capture an image then it appears to us you could be subjected to enhanced criminal prosecution.

(h/t fishbowlLA)