Satellite Plan Draws Scrutiny

SATELLITE PLAN DRAWS SCRUTINY
[SOURCE: Wall Street Journal, AUTHOR: Robert Block bobby.block@wsj.com]
In the first sign of opposition to a controversial satellite-surveillance plan, House Democrats told the Department of Homeland Security they intend to exercise close oversight of the program, a move that could spark another confrontation between the legislature and the executive over national security. The announcement, contained in a tersely worded letter sent yesterday to Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff by House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson (D-MS), echoes concerns voiced by some critics that the planned program lacks sufficient safeguards to prevent abuses. Spy satellites have been used for decades for civilian purposes, including mapmaking and environmental studies. Three months ago, the Bush administration decided to expand their use for homeland security and law enforcement, including border protection. The satellites will later be made available to assist federal, state, local and tribal authorities. The program has been on the drawing board since September 2005 and was authorized by the director of national intelligence, Michael McConnell, in May.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118783777852006309.html?mod=todays_us_pa...
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