Rep. Reginald Bolding, D-Laveen, suggested that the new regulations have less to do with security than with the discomfort of some lawmakers with what reporters have been writing. And that, he said, includes reports on state-paid travel.

That is a reference to an extensive story earlier this year by Hank Stephenson of the Arizona Capitol Times about Gowan’s travels at state expense, much of it in the congressional district where he wants to get elected.

Gowan eventually had to repay the House more than $12,000.

In other words, the congressman demanding this doesn’t like what the press has been saying about him so he creates a new law all in the guise of “safety.”

Source: Arizona House bans reporters who won’t consent to background checks | Arizona Capitol Times