"Patriot" Act renewal

[magid]

House and Senate negotiators reached an agreement to extend the USA Patriot Act, "the government's premier anti-terrorism law," (*splutter*) before it expires at the end of the month. They're proposing a four year renewal of authorizing roving wiretaps and allowing secret warrants for "books, records and other items from businesses, hospitals and organizations such as libraries." All other provisions of the Patriot Act would become permanent law.

Senator Russ Feingold (the only one to vote against the original version of the act) is threatening a filibuster.

I've emailed both my senators to express extreme disapproval; this Act was the beginning of so much of what I hate about US government today, with the abrogation of civil liberties, loss of privacy, and an unaccountable government that wastes money on ridiculous things while our citizens are left in dire straights.

Thanks to Hrafn for the link to the story.