White House Mulls Shift in Hostage Ransom Policy

The families of American hostages held by foreign kidnappers could soon be allowed to pay ransoms or raise money to free their loved ones without fear of federal prosecution. That's according to a recommendation by a White House-ordered advisory group.

"There will be absolutely zero chance of any family member of an American held hostage overseas ever facing jail themselves, or even the threat of prosecution, for trying to free their loved ones," said one of three senior officials familiar with the hostage policy team's ongoing review.

The advisory group interviewed many who have experienced this first hand, including the parents of journalist James Foley.

"If we can have families free to do what it takes to get their loved ones out, that's certaintly a first step," Diane Foley, James Foley's mother, said.

She says her family was told very cleary three times that it was illegal for them to try and ransom their son, who was later beheaded by ISIS jihadists in Syria.

There are several Americans still being held hostage around the world, including Caitlan Coleman, her Canadian husband and their toddler.

If President Barack Obama accepts the recommendations, the government would essentially look the other way if families try to pay ransom.