Following what critics have called a secretive New Years Eve signing by President Obama, controversy has swirled, with little national attention, regarding the
National Defense Authorization Act and the impact that changes made to the approved federal legislation could have on the civil liberties of the nation's citizens.
Among those who have voiced concern is United States Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas(Play Audio :12 seconds)
Voting initially for the legislation, Moran then supported an amendment, that did not pass, to remove the most controversial wording, specifically the potential detainment of American citizens, prior to final approval(Play Audio :16 seconds)
The wording remains, and Moran, attending the funeral of slain Atchison Police Sergeant David Enzbrenner, did not vote on the final outcome in December.
Moran takes seriously the concerns of critics, including Kentucky Senator Rand Paul-known as the most conservative member of the senate-and the American Civil Liberties Union. They claim the wording could lead to the indefinite detention of American Citizens, without Constitutional protections, with the broad wording leading to such action simply due to the voicing of opposition to the federal government.
Moran says he shares concerns that the wording of the legislation, which became law with the stroke of the President's pen, could be used in such a manner(Play Audio :19 seconds)
Moran is continuing to work towards changing the legal wording.
In an email, he explains that he is a sponsor of the Due Process Guarantee Act, a bill that makes clear that no U.S. Citizen can be detained without being charged, and receiving a trial, as specified in the United States Bill of Rights.
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Doniphan Co search warrant leads to 3 arrests
Sex crimes charges hold Atchison teen
Fleeing, drugs, hold Atchison man
Atchison's USD 409 names new Superintendent
ATCH CO SO seeks tips regarding stolen motorcycle
Third day Superintendent candidate named by USD 409
Expansion of Atchison skatepark planned
NioCorp to begin 12-week drilling program
Olathe woman arrested in Jackson Co on drug charges
Hiawatha City Commission approves fireworks on trial basis
Jackson Heights names new MS/HS Principal
Longtime Sabetha Fire Chief to retire
Two new members appointed to Brown Co Planning Commission
Bids approved for two Doniphan Co road projects
Falls City Council hears updated on electric department
Richardson Co Courthouse rededication ceremony held
LATEST STORIES
Atchison foundry renamed in acquisition
Spring cleaning time in the city of Horton
Summer EBT cards being distributed in Nebraska
Early morning power outage planned for Falls City
MO Congressman Graves critical of USPS
Grant apps for Falls City Amphitheater project denied
Jackson Heights names new MS/HS Principal
Seatbelt surveys coming to local counties