Provide names of other journalists involved.
None.
List date(s) this work was published or aired.
6-Aug-12
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
A controversial law passed by Florida lawmakers in 2011 prohibits physicians from asking patients about ownership or access to guns. That means a doctor cannot ask an abused wife if her husband owns a gun and a psychiatrist cannot a patient with depression if he has access to firearms. Doctors have sued the state, claiming the new law – back by the National Rifle Association – infringes on their First-Amendment right to free speech.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
This blog links to the law, enabling readers to view the entire text of the statute.
Explain types of human sources used.
None.
Results:
Mass shootings, such as those in Aurora, Colorado and Newton, Connecticutt this year, re-ignite the gun control debate. Typically, the arguments focus on assault rifles and gun sales. As a writer, I believe it is important to show readers other arenas where the gun control debate is being waged. In this blog I go beyond the Second-Amendment and look at the health consequences of a controversial gun law.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
The case is currently being reviewed by a Florida court.
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Whenever you write about a topic that is supported by a large, well-organized group – whether the NRA or the Church of Scientology – be prepared to address their arguments. As you write, consider the potential points they will raise and try to address those in the initial article or follow-ups. These types of articles present an excellent opportunity to improve your critical thinking skills as a writer and to present well thought out angles in your writing.