RGS Statement on the Senate's Vote to Proceed on the USA Freedom Act

We commend the Senate for overwhelmingly voting 77-17 to proceed on the USA Freedom Act. The expiration of certain authorities tonight should not stop consideration of the bill, especially as the legislation contains significant reforms beyond the expiring provisions. Congress should act to pass USA Freedom this week. As the Senate considers amendments to the bill, we urge it to avoid adding any provisions that weaken the prohibition of bulk collection of Internet metadata, mandate data retention, or otherwise introduce new concepts or definitions that weaken consumers’ trust in the Internet.