Today, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), released the following statement announcing his vote against extending provisions of the Patriot Act.

“As recently as last week, I voted to extend three provisions of the Patriot Act, but I can do so no longer. The failure of these provisions to pass last week has given me a bit more time to consider my position. The thing that has changed in the last week when I voted for the extension of the Patriot Act revisions is: Enough.

• Enough of extending these provisions without anything but what amounts to a pro forma debate about the balance between security and privacy;
• Enough of the delay in developing an appropriate Congressional oversight mechanism of the Patriot Act implementation;
• Enough of the extension of the business records provision that allows warrants for everything from what books you check out of the library to the books you buy.

“It is still possible that I could vote for a Patriot Act reauthorization in the future, but it will depend upon what it looks like.

“So, yes. I did change my position from what it was last week. But this has been something I have contemplated for some time. It is always the right time to do the right thing.”

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