Story perspectives

House Pushes Section 702 Reauthorization, Adds U.S. Person Ban

4/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The House advanced a bill to reauthorize Section 702 before its April 30, 2026 deadline, adding bans on targeting U.S. persons.
Rep. Rick Crawford said the bill bans intentional surveillance of Americans and extends penalties to the FBI.
President Donald Trump and Republican leaders oppose any warrant requirement, saying the program is vital for security.
Rep. Jim Himes and Rep. Stephen Lynch warned they will vote against the bill without stronger privacy safeguards.

History

Historical Context

Congress first passed the FISA Amendments Act on July 10, 2008, after the House approved it 293-129 and the Senate cleared it 69-28, granting Section 702 authority for warrantless foreign surveillance. Extensions in 2012, 2018 and 2024 kept the powers alive. The House now seeks reauthorization before the April 30, 2026 deadline, aiming to add U.S.-person targeting bans.

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Story summary

The House advanced a bill to reauthorize Section 702 before its April 30, 2026 deadline, adding bans on targeting U.S. persons.
Rep. Rick Crawford said the bill bans intentional surveillance of Americans and extends penalties to the FBI.
President Donald Trump and Republican leaders oppose any warrant requirement, saying the program is vital for security.
Rep. Jim Himes and Rep. Stephen Lynch warned they will vote against the bill without stronger privacy safeguards.

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