U.S. Department of the Interior faces criticism over park fatality reporting policy

The Society of Professional Journalists and 11 other civic organizations have expressed concern regarding a U.S. Department of the Interior policy that restricts the release of information concerning deaths and serious injuries at national parks.

An internal memo, first reported by the Washington Post, reportedly instructs employees that they may not confirm fatalities. The policy applies to all communications involving suspected deaths, serious injuries, or emotionally sensitive incidents. Critics argue the policy stifles the free flow of information and may violate the First Amendment rights of public employees. Some current and former National Park Service staff have noted that these communication shifts have caused delays in releasing information to the public.

A spokesperson for the Interior Department denied claims that the policy is intended to conceal information, stating that the guidance was created to ensure a consistent approach to incident communications and to prioritize notifying families first.