surveillance

Two items of note today from prominent inside-the-Beltway publications regarding the ongoing fight over whether Congress should reauthorize the serially abused Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) Section 702 electronic mass surveillance authority. The first from Punchbowl News:

Punchbowl News on FISA reauth battle April 5 2024

The bill in question can be viewed here.

The second item is from POLITICO from late last night:

POLITICO on FISA reauth fight April 4 2024

And whether you prefer the term “surveillance capitalism” or “corporate welfare,” the data broker industry is working hard to keep its 702-related contracts viable. Also from POLITICO yesterday:

POLITICO on RELX hire of Venable for FISA fight April 4 2024

Data collection on Americans has become a giant business over the last 30 years, one that law enforcement agencies benefit from enormously as it allows them to effectively circumvent the Fourth Amendment, outside of circumstances requiring the most intrusive surveillance techniques. For the corporate data brokers, it’s easy money from government agencies. It’s a toxic mix that FISA reformers are trying to end. Before spring 2024 ends, we’ll know whether or not they’ve succeeded.