Bowling Green Today

U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) has introduced amendments aimed at rectifying unconstitutional provisions in H.R. 7888, the Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act (RISAA), and other governmental spying practices. RISAA was initially touted as a significant reform and reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). However, critics argue that instead of curtailing overreach, RISAA expands it by granting government agencies unprecedented authority to compel private entities to disclose sensitive communication data.

"We cannot continue sacrificing our freedoms in the name of security. Rather than reining in FISA overreach, RISAA expands it dramatically," said Dr. Paul. "I urge my colleagues to support meaningful reforms that protect both national security and civil liberties."

Dr. Paul's proposed amendments aim to strike a balance between national security and individual privacy rights. These reforms are seen as vital steps towards modernizing surveillance laws and upholding fundamental liberties in the digital age.

The first amendment, SA 1828, seeks to impose strict limitations on surveillance and information-gathering activities under FISA concerning Americans while ensuring national security within the legal system. Key provisions include limitations on surveillance, queries, and use of information acquired or derived from surveillance activities.

The second amendment, SA 1829 or The Fourth Amendment is Not For Sale Act, aims to enhance privacy protections, regulate government entities' data access, and establish clear guidelines for lawful data acquisition and use. It includes protection of records held by data brokers, required disclosure limits on the government's ability to require disclosure of customer or subscriber records without a court order, and regulations for intermediary service providers.

The Senate is set to vote on Dr. Paul’s amendments soon.