Shenandoah Valley News

House and Senate conservatives are raising concerns over a potential move by congressional leadership to extend a deep state surveillance law in a defense bill. The issue at hand is the reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which allows for surveillance of foreign targets located outside the United States.

During a press conference, House Freedom Caucus Chairman Scott Perry (R-PA) expressed his opposition to linking the reauthorization of FISA to any other legislation, stating, "Reauthorization of FISA can't be hooked to anything. The federal government has spied on Americans who decided to go to Church or went to a school board meeting. This needs to end. Reauthorization needs to stand on its own, and have significant reform."

The concerns raised by conservatives stem from the potential inclusion of a temporary extension of Section 702 in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) has already voiced his opposition to any such extension in the NDAA.

Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) echoed these sentiments, stating that there is "no reason" for a temporary authorization of Section 702.

Conservatives are calling for significant reform to the surveillance law, emphasizing the need to protect the privacy and civil liberties of American citizens. They argue that the federal government's surveillance activities have gone too far, infringing upon the rights of individuals who are not the intended targets.

The debate over the extension of Section 702 in the defense bill highlights the ongoing tension between national security concerns and the protection of civil liberties. As Congress contemplates the reauthorization of FISA, it will be crucial to strike a balance that effectively addresses the nation's security needs while upholding the constitutional rights of American citizens.

The issue remains contentious, with conservatives firmly opposing any extension of Section 702 in the defense bill. They argue that reauthorization should be separate and subject to significant reform. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Congress will ultimately address the concerns raised by conservatives and determine the future of deep state surveillance authorization.