[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 25, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1352]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      FISA AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2008

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 20, 2008

  Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Madam Speaker, I risk today in opposition 
to H.R. 6304, The FISA Amendments Act of 2008. As a representative from 
New York City, I know how important good intelligence is in ensuring 
that our Nation does not face another terrorist attack. However, we 
must ensure that we do not trample on civil liberties in the process. 
This administration has expanded the powers of the government to 
monitor the actions of American citizens with, unfortunately, too 
little oversight from Congress or the courts.
  While I appreciate the efforts to reach a compromise on this 
legislation, H.R. 6304 does not go far enough to protect the rights of 
the American people. The legislation allows for retroactive immunity 
for telecommunication companies that participated in the Bush 
administration's warrantless wiretapping program. I also am concerned 
that most Members of Congress will not have access to important reports 
issued by the Attorney General and the Director of National 
Intelligence.
  We should stand up for the Constitution and for the rights of our 
constituents by ensuring that their privacy is better protected.

                          ____________________