Response from Senator Murray

Dear Mr. Brineman:

Thank you for contacting me about the nation's actions in the war on terrorism.
I appreciate hearing from you on this important subject.

In the aftermath of the attacks of September 11th, Congress passed and the
President signed into law the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing
Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA
PATRIOT Act). The PATRIOT Act provided law enforcement with numerous new
capabilities, including greater investigative powers and stronger prosecution
methods. This legislation also contained provisions limiting the new and
enhanced law enforcement powers, including sunset language that causes many
parts of this Act to cease to exist after 2005.

Since the passage of the PATRIOT Act, I have heard from numerous Washingtonians
who are concerned about the scope and impact of the Act. The PATRIOT Act has
provided some real and beneficial tools for fighting terrorism; such as
increased funding and staffing for protection along our Northern Border.

However, I have great concerns about how agencies such as the Justice Department
have used their new powers. I am disturbed by reports that the Department has
used PATRIOT Act powers against other suspects more than terror suspects.
In the 108th Congress, several bills we introduced to ensure that the PATRIOT
Act does not infringe on the civil liberties of average Americans. This includes
legislation such as the Library and Bookseller Protection Act, the Freedom of
Information Restoration Act (both of which would protect the privacy of library
and bookstore patron records), and the Security and Freedom Ensured Act.

I believe that Congress must closely examine the effects and usefulness of the
PATRIOT Act when it is set to expire. Rest assured, I will closely scrutinize
any efforts to expand the PATRIOT Act before that time. Congress must continue
to remain vigilant in ensuring that neither legislation nor the Administration's
actions strip Americans of our fundamental rights. Our country is a symbol of
liberty and freedom because of the rights we guarantee to all citizens. If we
limit those rights in an effort to improve our security, we lose far more then
any terrorist could take from us.

Again, thank you for contacting me. If I can be of service in the future,
please be in touch.

Sincerely,
Patty Murray
United States Senator