response to my pat act question from sen. nelson

[ellenfl]

Dear Ms. Grannis:

Thank you for contacting me with your concerns about the Patriot Act and safeguarding civil liberties. I agree that we must work vigorously to protect individual freedoms during this difficult time.

The Patriot Act was enacted in 2001 following the attacks of
September 11, as increased emphasis was placed on counterterrorism and
counterintelligence. Several of the provisions of the Act dealing with law enforcement wiretaps and access to library, medical, or financial records are set to expire on December 31, 2005. Other sections, like those dealing with sneak-and-peek searches, will not sunset.

I strongly believe that while we must remain vigilant in our
fight against terrorism by equipping law enforcement officials with the necessary tools, we must also safeguard our precious civil liberties.

Various Senate committees have begun holding hearings on the
Act's effectiveness and its impact on individual freedoms. As I closely examine the Patriot Act, I will be sure to keep your thoughts in mind.

doesn't sound like he agrees that our civil liberties are in jeopardy. what do you think?

ellen fl