May 21, 2004
Council denounces PATRIOT Act
This is a good trend. Let's hope it continues.
The City Council delved into national politics Thursday, adding its voice to the growing chorus of local governments speaking out against a controversial law aimed at finding terrorists.By a 5-2 vote, council members approved a resolution denouncing portions of the Patriot Act, which was passed after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. President George W. Bush is asking Congress to reauthorize the law as he runs for re-election.
Supporters say it is an important tool that aids the government in its search for terrorists and protects the country from attack.
Critics argue it is too drastic and erodes civil rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of association and privacy.
Council members sided with the critics.
"We have to protect our freedom," said council Chairman James Bennett. "If you give up your freedom, you may never get it back."
Locally, the Tampa City Council was the first to weigh in on the issue, passing a similar resolution last month.
So far, more than 290 communities throughout the country have opposed portions of the act, including Sarasota and the counties of Lee, Broward and Alachua in Florida.
TAMPA: Safe AND Free - Defending Our Civil Liberties and The Bill of Rights
Posted by Norwood at May 21, 2004 09:13 AM