USA Freedom Act: A Landmark Legislation Restoring Privacy
Historical Context
The USA Patriot Act, enacted in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, expanded surveillance powers of law enforcement and intelligence agencies. However, concerns emerged about potential abuses of these powers.
The USA Freedom Act
The USA Freedom Act (HR 11423), signed into law in 2015, amended the Patriot Act to address these concerns. It:
- Ended bulk collection of phone records.
- Required a warrant for access to business records and other non-content data.
- Established a Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board to review surveillance programs.
Balancing Security and Privacy
The Freedom Act aimed to strike a balance between protecting national security and safeguarding individual privacy rights. It recognized the ongoing threat of terrorism while ensuring transparency and accountability in surveillance activities.
Conclusion
The USA Freedom Act represents a significant step towards restoring privacy protections for all Americans. Its impact will continue to be felt in the years to come, shaping the relationship between government surveillance and individual rights in the digital age.
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