Boehner: Congress Should Close the Terrorist Loophole

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) today praised Rep. Heather Wilson (R-NM), a member of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, for introducing legislation to close the terrorist loophole and modernize the Foreign Intelligence Security Act of 1978, the law governing lawful intelligence surveillance:

“America’s intelligence agencies are the very first line of national defense. FISA was written and passed during the Cold War era and should be updated to reflect the sophisticated and adaptive nature of the terrorist threat. It is imperative that Congress close the gaping loophole in our intelligence law that prevents operatives from listening to foreign terrorists. Instead of shielding terrorists, we should be working to prevent future attacks. Unfortunately, the majority in Congress seems satisfied to let serious considerations slide by in favor of theater and political antics.

“Two weeks ago, House leaders rushed through a measure that would have precipitously withdrawn U.S. forces from Iraq. They are currently planning similar political stunts. It would be nice for a change for Democratic leaders to be as vigorous on strengthening America ’s intelligence capabilities as they are preventing our troops from successfully completing their mission in Iraq.

“I want to thank Heather Wilson for her leadership on this bill and her determination in making sure Members of Congress understand the critical need for intelligence reform.”