The Making of the USA PATRIOT Act I: The Legislative Process and Dynamics

Kam C. Wong, Xavier University

Abstract

ABSTRACT On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked America without warning, killing 2752 in New York City alone. The President declared war on terrorism and pledged to use all resources at United States’ disposal to conquer the enemy. On October 26, 2001, President Bush signed into law the USA PATRIOT ACT, giving the law enforcement officials expansive powers and security agencies increased resources to fight terrorism, at home and abroad.

This article, based on a larger research project (“The Impact and Implications of USA PATRIOT Act on American Society.”) investigated into the legislative history of the USA PATRIOT ACT, broadly define. This article is first of a two part series reporting upon: “The Making of the USA PATRIOT ACT”. It is subtitled: “Legislative Process and Dynamics”. The article to follow is subtitled: “Legislative Climate and Political Context.”