Training

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Data Centers and Defamation Risk: A Discussion of Pennsylvania’s Anti-SLAPP Law Protections
Join PNA for a free members-only training, “Data Centers and Defamation Risk: A Discussion of Pennsylvania’s Anti-SLAPP Law Protections.” As proposed data center projects generate increasing public interest and controversy across Pennsylvania, journalists face important legal considerations when reporting about these developments. This session will examine defamation law in Pennsylvania, provide an overview of the…
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31st Annual Media Lawyers Conference
Attention Media Lawyers: Registration now open! The Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association plans to hold the 31st PNA Media Lawyers Conference on Monday, July 20, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ballard Spahr offices, 1735 Market St. 51st floor, Philadelphia, PA. PNA encourages and welcomes your suggestions to help make this year’s conference as informative and…
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The Sunshine Act: Public Meetings & Finding the Story – even in the Boring Stuff
The Sunshine Act requires that government bodies conduct business in public. Transparency is the foundation of accountable journalism. During this session, we will discuss the basics of Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act, your rights under the First Amendment, and how to effectively use the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association as a resource. Learn how to access public records, work…
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Defamation and Invasion of Privacy – Anti-SLAPP
Many defamation and privacy claims are dismissed early under Anti‑SLAPP. Courts analyze whether the speech involves a public issue and Plaintiffs must show actual malice early in the process if they are public figures. Anti‑SLAPP can deter attempts to weaponize privacy torts. We’ll discuss: The elements of defamation and defenses to defamation cases Intrusion upon…
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A Guide to Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law: Unlocking Public Records
Pennsylvania’s Right‑to‑Know Law (RTKL) is the backbone of government transparency in the Commonwealth. It gives every person—resident or not—the legal right to access public records from state and local agencies. Whether you’re a journalist, a community advocate, or simply a curious citizen, understanding how the law works empowers you to hold government accountable. Access to…
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On Deadline in Harm’s Way – Pittsburgh May 11
This two-part session is being held at Point Park University’s Center for Media Innovation in Pittsburgh on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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The Center Square Newswire Service Webinar
Add free daily newswire content to your publication PNA members are invited to attend a webinar on Thursday, April 23, at 11:00 a.m., to learn about the free newswire service from The Center Square. Learn how to expand your state-level and national coverage with free content from a news organization that the Ad Fontes Media…
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PFAS 101: Putting Together the Puzzle
PFAS 101: Putting Together the Puzzle is an informational webinar hosted by the Mid-Atlantic Biosolids Association in partnership with the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association focused on emerging PFAS concerns and their impacts on wastewater treatment and biosolids management. The session will provide a high-level overview of what PFAS are, how they became widespread, and how…
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From Requests to Appeals: A Sunshine Week Right to Know Law Program
Sponsored by PBA Bar/Press Committee on Wednesday, March 19, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Point Park University, Pittsburgh. A Free Program sponsored by the PBA Bar/Press Committee Join the Pennsylvania Bar Association Bar/Press Committee for a free program to cover the basics of the RTKL, then how RTKL appeals work in Allegheny County.…
