House Approves Four-Month Extension of Controversial Warrantless Surveillance Tool

Despite Allegations of Misuse, Former National Security Officials Argue for its Necessity in National Security

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which allows for warrantless surveillance, has been extended for four months as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
The extension was approved by the House with a vote of 310-118, despite criticism from some lawmakers and experts who argue that the tool has been misused to spy on American citizens.
Experts argue that there are alternative methods to combat terrorism without resorting to warrantless surveillance of American citizens.
Republican Utah Sen. Mike Lee questioned FBI Director Christopher Wray about the alleged abuse of Section 702 of FISA, with Wray stating that the FBI has already put reforms in place to stop them.
Despite the controversy, 46 former national security officials signed a letter urging Capitol Hill to extend Section 702, arguing that it is necessary for national security.