Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez, 13 Nov 2007

A U.S.-based media advocacy group says it is concerned that constitutional reforms proposed by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez could threaten press freedom in the country.

The Miami-based Inter American Press Association voiced concerns Tuesday after meetings with media executives and union leaders in Caracas, Venezuela. The IAPA delegation says the proposed measures include detention without charges and controls on the news media if Mr. Chavez declares a state of emergency.

Venezuelans will vote on the reforms in a referendum December 2. The proposal also includes eliminating presidential term limits.

The country's opposition parties, human rights groups and the Roman Catholic Church have condemned Mr. Chavez's proposals.

Some information for this report was provided by AP and Reuters.