Republicans discuss boosting existing spy powers guardrails as FISA compromise
By Rebecca Beitsch
Published on April 16, 2026.
Republicans are reportedly discussing a year-long renewal of the nation's warrantless spy powers in exchange for strengthening current aspects of the law. This deal would scale back the 18-month timeline requested by President Trump for renewing Section 702 of the Foreign Surveillance Intelligence Act (FISA). It would allow a larger group of lawmakers to see the activity being reviewed by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, expanding access beyond the Intelligence Committee. The agreement also includes increased criminal penalties for abusing Section 702. The GOP has been struggling to reach a deal on reauthorizing Section 702, with several members demanding reforms or to attach unrelated legislation. The potential agreement is also being discussed as part of a push to add a ban on the Federal Reserve issuing a central bank digital currency (CDP)
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