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Boyda Says New Bi-Partisan FISA Bill Provides Checks and Balances in Fight on Terrorism

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Nancy Boyda (Kansas Second District) announced that, after months of debate, the United States House of Representatives has today voted in favor of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act 2008 by a vote of 293-129.

Boyda said “Since I took office in January, 2007, my highest priority has been to protect our country. It’s the reason I ran for Congress – to protect my family and the families of Kansas. This is a responsibility I take very seriously. Congress has reached a bi-partisan agreement on a bill that provides protection for America – without violating the rights of Americans.”

The FISA bill requires court approval prior to the start of surveillance in a non-emergency. In an emergency, it allows the “wiretap first, get permission later” policy that Boyda has been advocating.

Boyda said, “I have been adamant that any Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act require checks and balances. This bill reaffirms what I have said repeatedly. The Protect America Act and the Senate version did not reflect the values of America. This bill strikes a good balance.”

“I heard from some constituents about immunity for telecommunications companies. This limited immunity should not in any way close the books on investigations into any illegal wiretapping which may have taken place. The American public deserves to know the truth.”

Rep. Nancy Boyda on FISA Audio ( 06/24/08 11:18 AM PST )