On Oct. 1, 2009 the Senate Judiciary Committee began consideration of three expiring provisions of the Patriot Act that all involve government investigation and surveillance powers aimed at thwarting international terrorist attacks. After hearing from the Obama administration that it would consider ideas for modifications to protect privacy, the committee passed a proposal sponsored by chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and began considering a series of amendments.

A statement from Leahy summarizes progress to date and said he hopes the committee can complete its work by Oct. 15. At that time the committee may consider an amendment in Sen. Russell Feingold’s proposed JUSTICE Act (S. 1686), which includes a provision that would change the definition of prohibited material support of terrorism to require intent to support violent activities. For a detailed report on Congressional action on the Patriot Act reauthorization see OMB Watcher Congress Braces for Patriot Act Battle.