Story perspectives

Advocates Demand FISA Reforms Before April Reauthorization Deadline

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Over 90 civil society groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Free Press Action, are urging congressional Democrats to oppose the extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) without reforms.
They claim the law has been misused for warrantless surveillance of Americans, enabling government access to private communications without court approval.
Senator Ron Wyden and other lawmakers have called for investigations into warrantless data purchases by the Department of Homeland Security.
Advocates stress the need for reforms to protect civil liberties and prevent surveillance abuse, especially during the Trump administration.
Congress must act before the April 20, 2024, reauthorization deadline.

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Story summary

Over 90 civil society groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Free Press Action, are urging congressional Democrats to oppose the extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) without reforms.
They claim the law has been misused for warrantless surveillance of Americans, enabling government access to private communications without court approval.
Senator Ron Wyden and other lawmakers have called for investigations into warrantless data purchases by the Department of Homeland Security.
Advocates stress the need for reforms to protect civil liberties and prevent surveillance abuse, especially during the Trump administration.
Congress must act before the April 20, 2024, reauthorization deadline.