NCJ Number
191291
Date Published
January 2001
Length
131 pages
Annotation
This document highlights legislative action to deter and punish terrorist acts in the United States and around the world.
Abstract
Issues addressed include enhancing domestic security against terrorism including a counterterrorism fund, condemnation of discrimination against Arab and Muslim Americans, increased funding for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, requests for military assistance in certain emergencies, expansion of a national electronic crime task force, and presidential authority. Enhanced surveillance procedures include authority to intercept wire, oral, and electronic communications relating to terrorism and computer fraud and abuse offenses, authority to share criminal investigative information, employment of translators, roving surveillance authority, seizure of voice mail messages pursuant to warrants, trade sanctions, and civil actions against the United States. The International Money Laundering Abatement and Anti-Terrorist Financing Act of 2001 states that money laundering provides the financial fuel that permits criminal enterprises to conduct and expand their operations to the detriment of the safety and security of American citizens. This Act addresses international counter money laundering and related measures, bank secrecy act amendments and related improvements, and currency crimes and protection. Border protection issues addressed are ensuring adequate personnel on the northern border, enhanced immigration provisions, and preservation of immigration benefits for victims of terrorism. The act also removes obstacles to investigating terrorism by providing authority to pay rewards to combat terrorism, allowing DNA identification of terrorists, encouraging coordination with law enforcement, and extending Secret Service jurisdiction. Other issues provided for are aid to victims, public safety officers, and their families; and improving intelligence.