On the recordDecember 28, 2012
I will use 1 minute. The fact is, we do an intelligence authorization bill every year. If there is a need to change the law, we can change it there, so this isn't the last opportunity to effect any change on the FISA Amendments Act for 5 years. I believe that it is the last opportunity to see that this program continues on without interruption. I would also point out that one of the areas in which the administration has really made an effort is to bring leaders of the Intelligence Community--whether it is the DNI or representatives from the Department of Justice--to the Hill and explain to individual Members how this program works. With respect to the classified material, any Member has access to it; any Member can go up and read this material. The staff of the Intelligence Committee, which helps us conduct this oversight, can read this material. The Members of the Intelligence Committee can read this material. As chairman, if someone finds an irregularity, I am happy to look at it, to have a hearing on it. But to adopt this amendment that would change this program at this time has my very strong opposition. I urge a ``no'' vote. I yield to the vice chairman. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. The Senator from Georgia.
