Maine Lawmakers’ positions on USA Patriot Act

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, Republican:

. Voted in favor of the act.

. Act intended to update existing laws.

. Gives federal officials “reasonable and necessary tools” to combat domestic terrorism without compromising civil liberties.

. “I do believe, however, that the Patriot Act could be improved.”

. Supported efforts to define more clearly protections of computer users.

. As member of the Governmental Affairs Committee, will seek to balance the right to privacy with needed security measures.

U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe, Republican:

. Voted in favor of the act.

. In contact with Maine Civil Liberties Union and the U.S. Justice Department about the act’s reading records provisions.

. “The Patriot Act was passed to better protect our nation in a post-9-11 landscape.”

. “I understand that there are those who have expressed concerns over its implications. As I believe that public discourse is central to effective policy, I will certainly work to make sure that their concerns are heard and addressed.”

U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud, 2nd District, Democrat:

. Not elected to Congress for original vote.

. Supports making changes to the act.

. One of many co-sponsors for proposed Freedom to Read Protection Act, which would restore limitations on federal access to citizens’ reading records.

. “There is a balance between the necessary security measures we must take such as increased port and border security, and actions that threaten the constitutional freedoms of law-abiding citizens.”

U.S. Rep. Tom Allen, 1st

District, Democrat:

. Voted in favor of the act.

. Concerned over the way the act has been enforced.

. Co-sponsor of Freedom to Read Protection Act and proposed Security and Freedom Ensured Act, or SAFE, which would restore judicial oversight to the process by which federal agents obtain and execute search warrants.