1. (a) When coverage is permitted. Proceedings that are open to the public may be broadcast, televised, recorded, or photographed unobtrusively and in a manner that does not interfere with the orderly conduct of the proceeding.

2. (b) When coverage is prohibited.

   1. (1) Media coverage of proceedings closed to the public is prohibited.
   2. (2) Media coverage of conferences between an attorney and client, witness, or aide, or between attorneys is prohibited.

3. (c) Authority of presiding judge.

   1. (1) The judge may deny, limit, or terminate media coverage that is obtrusive or interferes with the orderly conduct of the proceeding.
   2. (2) No proceeding will be delayed or continued for the sole purpose of allowing media coverage.

4. (d) Equipment and personnel. The judge may specify the placement of media personnel and equipment to permit reasonable coverage without disruption to the proceeding. Unless the judge orders otherwise, the following standards apply to the placement and operation of media equipment:

   1. (1) If media coverage is sought by more than one person or entity, the judge may require a pool system to be used. It will be the responsibility of the media to resolve any disputes among themselves as to which personnel will operate equipment in the hearing room.
   2. (2) Equipment shall not produce distracting sound or light. Moving lights, flash attachments, or sudden lighting changes shall not be used.
   3. (3) Operators shall not move equipment while the hearing is in session or otherwise cause a distraction. All equipment shall be in place in advance of the commencement of the proceeding.
   4. (4) Media personnel operating outside the hearing room shall not create a distraction and shall withdraw whenever necessary to avoid restricting movement of persons passing through the hearing room door.

Source Note:The provisions of this §155.411 adopted to be effective November 26, 2008, 33 TexReg 9451.