On the recordFebruary 15, 2011
I express my appreciation to everyone involved. It has been a difficult issue, but I will put on the record what I have told a number of Senators personally, and that is that we will, prior to this expiration occurring, bring up the PATRIOT Act and have an opportunity for an extended period of time--a week at least--to offer amendments and do whatever people feel is appropriate on this bill. I have talked to a couple of Senators who have told me specifically that they want to offer amendments. Although I didn't agree I would support their amendments--one was a Democrat and one was a Republican--I said that is what we should be able to do, to set this up so they can offer their amendments. And I will do whatever I can to make sure we move forward on this legislation in ample time so that we can pass this PATRIOT Act for a more extended period of time, which is so important to the security of this country. I know people have problems with it, and that is why we are going to have the amendment process.
