A coalition of civil society groups is advocating for Congress to limit warrantless surveillance powers as the new Democratic-majority Congress takes office. They are particularly concerned about Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows for monitoring without a warrant. The groups argue for broader reforms to protect privacy rights and curb government surveillance practices, especially in light of recent public sentiment against such measures.
Key facts
- A coalition of 80 civil rights groups is urging Congress to limit surveillance powers.
- Section 702 of FISA allows warrantless monitoring of communications and lapsed in June.
- The NSA can operate under Section 702 until March 2027 without renewal.
- Incoming House Intelligence Committee chair Rep. Jim Himes supports renewing surveillance powers.
- Recent elections showed public opposition to surveillance measures like Flock cameras.
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