Allow the cameras

Gazette Editorial Board

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The U.S. Supreme Court last week agreed to decide the constitutionality of the landmark health care reform law championed by President Barack Obama. The key issue is the mandate requiring everyone to have health insurance. Lower courts have split in their opinions.

Much is at stake. If the high court rules that the law is not constitutional, what then? And will the entire Affordable Care Act be thrown out?

Iowa's Sen. Chuck Grassley argues that this issue has such far-reaching effects that the Supreme Court should allow television coverage of the proceedings. We agree.

Such coverage not only would give Americans the opportunity to witness the arguments and learn more about this law, it could enhance understanding of how the federal courts work and set the stage for more transparency in the future.

While Iowa and many other states have long allowed cameras in their courtrooms, federal courts generally have been reluctant. Grassley has been pushing related legislation since 1999. A three-year pilot project to evaluate cameras' effect in federal courtrooms launched last year.

But the Supreme Court begins hearing the health care case in late February or early March. Chief Justice John Roberts should allow the cameras - on behalf of all Americans.

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