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EFF Battles New Surveillance Bills
That aim to 'retroactively legalize' warrantless surveillance
As Congress re-convenes, the EFF proclaims that Senator Arlen Spector is pushing legislation that would "help the government and the NSA continue to break the law by spying on ordinary Americans". They also point to efforts by Senator Mike DeWine that would "attempt to retroactively legalize" the administrations warrantless surveillance program. The EFF offers up this link to help those concerned about these programs write their legislators.

Most recommended from 86 comments


jpark
join:2005-02-05
Jackson, TN

5 recommendations

jpark

Member

It matters.

It matters that the executive branch (not just the current executive occupants) believe that the constitution doesn't matter -- that the executive branch can ignore constitutional provisions it finds problematical.

It matters because congress apparently believes it can pass laws in conflict with the constitution -- that they don't need a constitutional amendment to alter or negate sections of the constitution.

It matters because, with minor exception, the judicial branch has tacitly agreed with the executive and the legislative branches.

It matters because if the constitution no longer serves as a basis for law in the U.S., we no longer have even the pretense of a representative government.

What do you call a government which maintains the outward appearance of democracy (election to office, defined terms, etc.) while denying the legal structure which empowers it?

FFH5
Premium Member
join:2002-03-03
Tavistock NJ

3 recommendations

FFH5

Premium Member

Those against the bill means it is worthwhile

Specter's bill must be pretty good based on some of those who are against it. American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, American Civil Liberties Union, Council on American-Islamic Relations, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, National Coalition Against Repressive Legislation, National Lawyers Guild. When these groups are against something, most Americans should and will be for it.

ftthz
If love can kill hate can also save
join:2005-10-17

2 recommendations

ftthz

Member

...

first... untill it is law isn't it illegal? and second "We cannot defend freedom abroad by deserting it at home." -Edward R. Murrow