To the Editor,

The last week of October marks the second anniversary of congressional passage of the USA Patriot Act. Enacted on October 26, 2001, the Patriot Act provided the federal government with expanded powers to fight terrorism. Some of the expanded powers, however, run counter to constitutionally guaranteed freedoms. For example, it includes an overly broad definition of terrorism so that government action could be directed against protesters and organizations that voice disagreement with the policies of the leadership of the United States. 

In September of this year, the Administration proposed an expansion of the Patriot Act's law enforcement powers. This expansion of power would significantly undermine the fundamental liberties guaranteed to all citizens in the Constitution. We are deeply concerned about the plan, which would allow subpoenas to be issued without obtaining approval from judges or grand juries. 

The need to protect against security threats to America must be balanced with the need to preserve the very liberties that are the foundation of this country. There are fundamental principles that guard our liberty -- from independent judicial review of law enforcement actions to prohibitions on indiscriminate searches -- that must be preserved. 

Bipartisan opposition to some provisions of the Patriot Act and to an expansion of the Act continues to grow. On this second anniversary of the passage of the Patriot Act, we urge American citizens and their elected representatives to remain vigilant to protect against encroachment on basic civil liberties. 

Alexandra Starr, co-President
League of Women Voters of Fremont, Newark and Union City
(510)656-6877 for confirmation of sender