Lamar Smith 2011 Channels John Conyers 2010: Reauthorize Patriot Act so Congress can have time for Debate
“Please understand, Members, that this extension is not the final word on the PATRIOT Act , and what we will do is use the time between now and the year that will elapse to improve and pass real reform.
Now, while I would prefer to do this now, it is not to me strategically wise nor logistically possible to accomplish this at this time. And with the provisions expiring in a matter of 3 days, the other body has sent us this extension bill, so there is no reasonable possibility that they could pass a broader measure such as a Judiciary-passed bill at this time.
In other words, we have no other choice but to go along with this extension because there isn’t sufficient time. Well, tomorrow is the last day of the week. It’s physically impossible. So under these circumstances, it seems to me the best course is to merely maintain the status quo and work with the other body and the administration towards some improvements that I have in mind. I can announce we’ve made progress towards reaching common ground, and I believe an orderly path forward between now and during the next year will lead us to a much better result.
Now, although this extension doesn’t reform underlying law, we recognize there’s some value in a process that brings us quickly to another sunset date. Experience has taught that there’s nothing like an approaching sunset to bring both the executive branch and the other body to the table with the will to see this resolved. So while I’d rather pass the Judiciary Committee bill out and truly make the reforms that I think are necessary, because of the time constraints that we find, I recommend that we take the next year and continue the process.”
– House Judiciary Chair John Conyers, February 25 2010, explaining why it is necessary to grant a one-year extension to Patriot Act powers of warrantless surveillance
“This short-term extension is a step toward the long-term reauthorization of important and necessary national security provisions. It gives Congress time for an open and meaningful debate, while ensuring that our law enforcement and intelligence communities can continue to prevent attacks and save lives.”
– House Judiciary Chair Lamar Smith, January 26 2011, explaining why it is necessary to grant a one-year extension to Patriot Act powers of warrantless surveillance
It seems, curiously, that time is always running out.
donot extend the patriot act…they should get rid of it all together…….