dc_dux

I would prefer to see the retroactive immunity provision removed, but its just not a deal breaker for me.

The most important issue is providing more safeguards, checks and balances, and oversight to prevent Bush and/or the next president from bypassing FISA or authorizing excessive wiretaps w/o warrants. Despite the complexity of the bill, I think it accomplishes that.

If your issue with retroactive immunity for the telecomms is punitive rather than for the purpose of having the full truth about past actions brought to light...then its a dead deal.

But if you are more concerned about the truth of what Bush did for four years, there is a relatively simple solution.

Once the telecomms have retroactive immunity, both Judiciary Committees can convene oversight hearings on the bill and its intent to prevent past abuses and compel the telecomm officials to testify under oath.

With immunity, they can no longer plead the 5th and Bush cant claim they are covered by executive privilege......and voila, the truth comes out.

In fact, I would even encourage Obama to take this route.

First, try to remove the retroactive immunity provision.

If, and when that fails, introduce another amendment to make the retroactive immunity immediate and complete (no waiting for a court decision as is currently is proposed).

Then call for immediate hearings after the bill is signed and bring the telecomm execs in to testify...with subpoenas if necessary.

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