U.S. Senator James Lankford joined the majority of Senate Intelligence Committee members in supporting the reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). Section 702 has come under some criticism because of alleged misuse by federal agents to spy on American citizens. The reauthorization extends the sunset of FISA to December 31, 2025. It was originally meant to target communications of non-Americans located outside of the United States for foreign intelligence purposes.
“I am pleased that we have reauthorized this key program to ensure our national security. The bill adds stronger protections of civil liberties while maintaining vital authorities for our Intelligence Community. The bill also ensures rigorous oversight of the Intelligence Community’s use of this authority and sets a time limit on the authorities. This bill is the right approach to national security, and I hope the full Senate passes this right away,” said Lankford.
The reauthorization passed the Senate Intelligence Committee by a 12 – 3 vote.
