In a vote of 257-171 on Thursday July 21 the United States Congress reauthorized several elements of the Patriot Act, which were due to expire in 2006. Fourteen of the sixteen sections with “sunset clauses” were made permanent, and the other two were extended for ten years. The legislation now goes before the Senate. President Bush has expressed interest in the act being extended, and vows to pass any legislation that reaches his desk.
The Patriot Act was passed in late October 2001 and was aimed at preventing further terror attacks through expanded law enforcement powers. It is a controversial act which some claim violates citizens’ constitutional rights. The final roll call tally can be located here.
Don’t blame Alaska
Our representative voted no and I’m glad he did!
Mine voted Yes
I think a strongly worded note expressing my displeasure is in order.
I urge all of you to do the same. Send it via the mails, not email.
Re:Mine voted Yes
Another round of love/applause from me to Chaka Fattah, still the only person in the world who makes up for having Santorum as Senator, R-PA. If anyone makes fun Congressman Fattah’s name this time, we’re stepping outside, hear? I was nice last time, but you only get to be ignorant the one time.