Press Release

November 18, 2014
Cardin Disappointed the Senate was Blocked from Considering Reforms to the Flawed FISA Law

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) issued the following statement after the Senate was blocked Tuesday from beginning debate on the USA Freedom Act, which reforms FISA:

 

“I am disappointed that Senate Republicans filibustered legislation that would have made critical reforms to our nation’s surveillance laws by protecting our nation against terrorist attacks while safeguarding civil liberties. The USA FREEDOM Act would have ended the bulk collection program of the National Security Agency and refocused their efforts on relevant terrorism investigations, increased the transparency of government surveillance, and improved the operations of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. The legislation has the support of a broad coalition of civil liberties and technology groups, and is backed by our nation’s top law enforcement and intelligence officials as well as the White House. The Senate missed an opportunity to take action, which will lead to greater uncertainty for our dedicated government employees carrying out these programs before they sunset next summer.”

 

 

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