The Chicago Police Department has extended the validity of existing media credentials from 2008 through June 30, 2010, police spokesman Roderick Drew said Feb. 19. In a Feb. 17 letter he sent “media partners,” he said CPD has proposed amendments to the current credentials rules and the amendments will require City Council approval. Drew said late last year that requirements that applicants be fingerprinted and undergo criminal background checks might be removed from the credentialing rules.