Questions Swirl Over Renewal of Surveillance Powers Law

Some lawmakers do not support a clean, 18-month reauthorization of FISA’s Section 702, worrying past reforms are not enough to protect Americans’ rights.

President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson walk in the U.S. Capitol building in Washington on March 17, 2026. Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times

WASHINGTON—A month before it expires, a major provision of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) could face roadblocks—or at least speed bumps—from Democrats and some Republicans.

Section 702 of the law targets intelligence from foreign nationals thought to be outside the United States. Yet, it also enables intelligence agencies to gather information from Americans who are in contact with those non-U.S. persons—and all without a warrant.