Usa Patriot Act Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Usa Patriot Act?

The USA Patriot Act of 2001 is a law passed in the United States that gives law enforcement agencies and federal government the ability to combat terrorism with greater effectiveness. The act was signed into law by President George W. Bush on October 26, 2001, shortly after the September 11th terrorist attacks on America. The purpose of the Patriot Act is to make it easier for authorities to investigate suspicious activity that could be related to terrorism and other crimes.The USA Patriot Act increases government powers in several areas including surveillance, criminal prosecution, detention of suspects, financial transactions and immigration laws. For example, the act allows federal investigators to access personal records such as phone records and emails without a warrant or court order under certain circumstances; it also permits roving wiretaps which enable authorities to monitor a suspect’s phone conversations no matter which telephone they use; and it allows sneak-and-peek searches which allow investigators to search a home or business without notifying occupants until after they have left. In addition, the act broadened provisions allowing for indefinite detentions of foreign nationals suspected of involvement in terrorist activities who cannot be deported due to lack of evidence necessary for criminal prosecution. The passage of this legislation has sparked debate about civil liberties versus national security concerns because some argue that it violates constitutional rights such as freedom from unreasonable search and seizure or due process rights afforded by the Fifth Amendment. Supporters counter this argument by noting that additional security measures are necessary in light of increased threats from international terrorism networks like Al Qaeda. Consequently , Congress reauthorized many parts of the Patriot Act multiple times since its passage in 2001 , indicating widespread support for continued use. In conclusion , while there is still much debate about how far governmental power should extend when combating terrorism , most agree that some form of regulation is necessary for public safety. The USA Patriot Act provides powerful tools that have enabled law enforcement agencies across the nation to effectively respond quickly when presented with potential threats posed by terrorists groups like Al Qaeda .