A series of studies by SPJ National show that reporters are finding it increasingly difficult to access information and conduct interviews through public information officers.

"Over the last 25 years or so, there has been a relatively rapid trend toward prohibiting staff members from communicating to journalists without reporting to some authority, often public information officers," SPJ reports.

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists is hosting a panel discussion on the studies, including how to find ways to improve relationships between the holders of public information and the journalists who are seeking it out.

Who: Nicole Nishida, public information officer, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

Elena Stern, senior public information director, Los Angeles Department of Public Works

Lisa Derderian, public information officer, City of Pasadena

Lauren Gold, public information officer, City of Anaheim, moderator

When: Tuesday, January 22, 2019, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Where: The Association lounge, 110 East 6th Street, downtown Los Angeles.

Cost: Free and open to the public

Parking: Commercial lot at 545 S. Main St., Los Angeles

Contact: Sarah Favot, sarah.favot@gmail.com

RSVP: spjlosangeles@gmail.com