USA Freedom Act: Strengthening National Security and Privacy
Origins and Compromise
The USA Freedom Act emerged as a response to concerns surrounding the government's monitoring of phone and internet records, as authorized by Section 215 of the PATRIOT Act. The Act represents a compromise between the need for national security and the protection of individual privacy.Key Provisions
The USA Freedom Act introduces a series of measures to strengthen privacy protections, including:
- Ending the bulk collection of business records under Section 215.
- Requiring specific and individualized court orders for collection of phone or internet records.
- Establishing a new Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board to oversee and report on surveillance activities.
- Expanding transparency and accountability measures for government surveillance programs.
Passage and Enactment
The House of Representatives passed the USA Freedom Act with a vote of 338-88 on May 13, 2015. The Senate followed suit, passing the bill by 67-32 on June 2, 2015. President Obama signed the legislation into law later that day.
Impact and Significance
The USA Freedom Act has restored and modified key provisions of the PATRIOT Act, striking a balance between national security and individual privacy. It represents a significant step towards safeguarding citizens' rights while preserving the capabilities necessary for effective law enforcement and counterterrorism efforts.
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