Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Menomenee Falls) who introduced the Patriot Act after 9/11, wants to make sure three expiring parts of it get renewed. He's especially concerned of the so-called lone wolf provision. Prior to its passage the FBI could not obtain a surveillance order on a suspected international terrorist unless they could be connected to a foreign power.
Sensenbrenner says without the law, a terrorist may be able can “slip through the net” and commit a crime that could potentially harm thousands of Americans.
At the House Judiciary Committee hearing Thursday with the Attorney General, Sensenbrenner expressed concern that Congress will adjourn without renewing the provisions before the anti-terror policies sunset in December. He requested the AG Eric Holder give a deadline for recommendations to lawmakers.
Holder could not nail down a date but noted he doesn't “want to take any tools away from those who defend our country.” The Attorney General says his office will forward their views to Congress as quickly as they can.
