St. Petersburg City Council decries Patriot Act

http://www.sptimes.com/2004/05/21/Southpinellas/St_Petersburg_City_Co.shtml

By CARRIE JOHNSON, St. Petersburg Times
Published May 21, 2004

ST. PETERSBURG - The City Council delved into national politics Thursday, adding its voice to the growing chorus of local governments speaking out against a controversial law aimed at finding terrorists.

By a 5-2 vote, council members approved a resolution denouncing portions of the Patriot Act, which was passed after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. President George W. Bush is asking Congress to reauthorize the law as he runs for re-election.

Supporters say it is an important tool that aids the government in its search for terrorists and protects the country from attack.

Critics argue it is too drastic and erodes civil rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of association and privacy.

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