Congress Extends Surveillance Power Under FISA for Temporary Period

US Congress Extends Controversial Surveillance Law

The United States Congress has temporarily extended a surveillance law that allows federal intelligence agencies to collect data on foreigners, including their interactions with US citizens. The extension, which will last until April 30, was approved by the House of Representatives and Senate on Friday.

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) permits the National Security Agency (NSA) and other intelligence services to gather data from individuals outside the country. This can include emails, telecommunications platforms, and other forms of communication that may involve US citizens. The law typically requires a warrant approved by a court for such collection.

Critics have described this process as a “backdoor search” that circumvents existing privacy laws. Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated after the vote that there is still openness to reforming the law, acknowledging that “we’ve got to pivot and figure out what can pass.”

Supporters of reform across party lines have sought to repeal or amend Section 702 since its addition in 2008 as part of FISA. The provision was introduced during the US’s “global war on terror” era. Former President George W Bush’s administration had already used tactics authorized by Section 702 before its passage.

President Donald Trump has advocated for extending the law without changes, citing concerns about national security. Some lawmakers, including Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, have expressed opposition to the extension unless it includes provisions protecting US citizens’ right to privacy and warrant requirements.

The temporary extension of the surveillance law will continue until April 30.

Source: Al Jazeera