Dutch Ruppersberger: “First, it's important that we hear all points of view from my colleagues when it comes to the reauthorization of the…”

“First, it's important that we hear all points of view from my colleagues when it comes to the reauthorization of the expiring Patriot Act provisions. I think the 3-year extension outlined in S. 289 will take politics out of this debate. I am pleased that this bill contains a sunset provision. It is important that these authorities have sunset dates so that Congress may evaluate the effectiveness of these tools on an ongoing basis. Only with rigorous oversight can we ensure that the privacy rights of Americans are protected. As ranking member of the Intelligence Committee, I will ensure that the committee conducts effective oversight of these provisions. I hope, in subsequent reauthorizations of the Patriot Act, that Congress continues to use sunset dates which will keep Congress in the business of oversight on these important authorities.”