Wittman Statement on USA FREEDOM Act

WASHINGTON – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) released the following statement after supporting the USA FREEDOM Act, which passed by a bipartisan vote of 338-88:

"Too frequently, we see examples of terrorist organizations and their sympathizers conspiring to carry out attacks against American citizens, both within our homeland and around the world. Our intelligence community must have resources readily available to detect and counter these threats. Today's legislation ensures that our intelligence community is capable of handling these threats, while also safeguarding the personal liberties of our people.

"I was proud to support this bill that will end the mass collection of Americans' phone data, without undermining our intelligence community's ability to fight terror.

"Congress must remain vigilant about countering threats from those who wish to do us harm. This is why I recently introduced the International Conflicts of Concern Act to counter the flow of Americans into countries of conflict. The purpose of the bill is to protect those Americans from becoming radicalized and returning to the U.S. to perpetrate attacks against our homeland.

"I will continue to fight for policies that protect civil liberties and ensure that our military and intelligence community's capabilities reflect the reality of the threats that continue to rise around the world."

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he is Chairman of the Readiness Subcommittee.

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