ITI: Change to Electronic Communications Service Providers Definition Would Be Broad Expansion of FISA Authority
WASHINGTON – Today, global tech trade association ITI cautioned against the sweeping implications of the Turner/Himes amendment, which would broaden the definition of electronic communications service provider to include those with access to the equipment as part of H.R. 7888 Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act.
“There is no greater responsibility of the Congress than to provide for the national security of the United States,” said John Miller, ITI’s Senior Vice President of Policy and General Counsel. “As lawmakers consider amendments to H.R. 7888, Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act, it’s imperative they not include provisions that would unintentionally make any electronic communication service equipment provider and those with access to that equipment subject to FISA authorities. These provisions represent a sweeping change that would implicate the broad universe of people and entities who provide or work with the infrastructure that makes telecommunications and internet communications a reality.”