The US Senate has reauthorized the warrantless surveillance tool, Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), for another two years. This extension adds more organizations and individuals to the list of those who can be compelled to assist in surveillance activities. The Senate rejected amendments that aimed to limit the intelligence agencies’ abilities to carry out warrantless surveillance. The legislation, known as the Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act (RISAA), was swiftly signed into law by President Biden. This has raised concerns over civil liberties and privacy, as well as the need for accountable oversight of the surveillance activities.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reauthorization of warrantless surveillance tool | Shift in surveillance powers | Heightened surveillance capabilities, increased privacy concerns, continued push for reform | National security, protection against threats |
| Extension of FISA Section 702 | Continuation of existing policy | Maintenance of warrantless surveillance powers, expanded scope of surveillance targets | National security, prevention of terrorist acts |
| Senate rejection of reform amendments | Lack of reform | Limited oversight, potential for abuse, ongoing civil liberties and privacy concerns | Desire for intelligence gathering capabilities |
| Inclusion of additional organizations for spying | Broadening of surveillance access | More entities compelled to assist in intelligence gathering, increased scrutiny of communications and service providers | National security, information gathering |
| Opposition from civil liberties and privacy groups | Push for surveillance reforms | Continued advocacy for surveillance reforms, increased public awareness and concern | Protection of civil liberties, privacy rights |