Senate Finally Confirms Chair for Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement following news that the U.S. Senate confirmed David Medine to be the Chairman of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. The board was established as an independent agency in the 'Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act,' sponsored by Congressman Thompson in 2007. It advises the President and executive branch to ensure that concerns with respect to privacy and civil liberties are appropriately considered in the implementation of all laws, regulations, and executive branch policies related to efforts to protect the Nation against terrorism. The Board has been defunct since 2008 despite the requirement by law for the Board to function. Now that the Board has a full time Chair, it can be active and functional.
I would like to congratulate David Medine on being confirmed to be the full time chairman of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. After significant delays in both the appointment and confirmation processes, the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board is now fully operational and should have a full agenda of issues to consider ranging from transportation security screening, information sharing, cybersecurity, and the expanded use of surveillance technologies in public spaces. As required by law, I look forward to receiving their reporting and hearing more about their work.
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