WASHINGTON (AP) — The House overwhelmingly has renewed a surveillance law that allows the government to monitor conversations of foreign spies and terrorist suspects abroad, while requiring approval from a secret court when Americans are targeted — no matter where they are.
Supporters emphasized that the bill is aimed at foreigners overseas, not Americans, and noted the five-year extension is considered vital by the Obama administration's intelligence officials. The vote was 301-118.
Opponents said the legislation does not adequately protect Americans from interception of their communications.
Senate opponents have threatened to hold up the bill.
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