Orrin Hatch: “I oppose this provision that could expand emergency wiretap authority to permit the Government to begin a wiretap prior…”

“I oppose this provision that could expand emergency wiretap authority to permit the Government to begin a wiretap prior to obtaining court approval in a greater range of cases than the law presently allows. I personally find this proposal troubling. I am concerned that this provision, if enacted, would unnecessarily broaden emergency wiretap authority. Under current law, such authority exists when life is in danger, when the national security is threatened, or when an organized crime conspiracy is involved. In the real world, we do not need this amendment to get emergency wiretap authority, and that is a fact. Let me also say that this authority is constrained by a requirement that surveillance be approved by the Court within 48 hours, but that authority already exists in those areas I have addressed. Now, this proposal of the distinguished Senator from Delaware would expand those powers to any conspiratorial activity characteristic of domestic or international terrorism.”