Every week, 2,000 - 3,000 Second District residents write to me about the issues pending before Congress, and I work hard to respond to each person as promptly and thoughtfully as possible.  On this "Letter of the Week" blog, I highlight constituent letters that are of general interest.  If you'd like to share your own views, please feel free to e-mail me at any time!

Dear Representative Boyda:

Since the Patriot Act was introduced, many Americans have known it is
dangerous because it was written in ways that make it too easy to spy
on Americans. Reports, most recently the March 9 report of the Justice
Department's Inspector General, have provided hard evidence that our
fears are well grounded.

It is high time for Congress to recognize that the Act is flawed, and
undertake a thorough revision so that it can be used in the effort to
prevent terrorism - - without eroding our civil liberties, weakening the
rule of law, and violating the Constitution.

I urge you, Representative Boyda, to insist that Congress undertake this essential fixing of the flaws of the Patriot Act this year.

- Brian from Manhattan, KS

Dear Brian,

Thank you for contacting my office regarding the PATRIOT Act.  Your opinion matters to me, as I am very concerned about protecting our rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights.

First, let me make it clear – the government must do all it can to protect this country.  However, the thought of any of our government agencies intruding into any citizen’s personal life without following the laws is very disturbing.  As a nation, we must strike a balance between our freedoms that we cherish so dearly and making sure that those who wish to do us harm are caught before they can do so. 

It is upsetting to think that the FBI may have been abusing the power granted to them in the PATRIOT Act.  Hearings were held by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence in March on the possible abuses by the FBI when conducting surveillance.  I am positive that the Committee members are keeping an eye on this issue, as will I.  Should legislation be presented to the House of Representatives on this issue, I will keep your concerns in mind.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me regarding this issue.  As your representative, I both need and value your perspective.  I hope you will continue to keep in touch with me and let me know whenever I may be of future assistance.

Sincerely,

Nancy Boyda
Member of Congress