Congress Could Expand the Patriot Act

Under intense pressure from the White House and the Attorney General, John Ashcroft, and perhaps spurred by feelings of both patriotism and fear many in congress simply moved to fast.  And given size of the Patriot Act and just how fast it swept through congress it isn't too surprising that, many congress members now admit that they did not properly read or review the enormous bill.

Several provisions of the Patriot act dramatically weaken crucial checks and balances on government power, checks which prevent the abuse of individual citizen's rights.  Parts of the Patriot Act are set to expire or "sunset" this year.  Despite bipartisan support and more than 400 community resolutions calling for appropriate changes to the Patriot Act to fix these problems, some in Congress now want to renew all of the expiring provisions of the Patriot Act without any meaningful reforms.

It has been four years since the 9/11 attacks, it is clear we need to apply the test suggested by the 9/11 Commission to those provisions of the Patriot Act that are set to expire.  First, has the administration proved that they actually and significantly increase our security?  Second, if so, do they contain safeguards to protect our liberties and prevent  abuse?

Go to this ACLU link and write your congress man to oppose the expansion of the Patriot Act.