Bill To Add Accountability To Border Laptop Search

I Don't Believe in Imaginary Property writes "Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-CA) has introduced a bill that would add accountability to the DHS searches conducted upon the laptops of those crossing the border. Specifically, it would require the issue of receipts to those who had their property confiscated so that it could later be returned, would limit how long the DHS can keep laptops, would require them to keep the laptop's information secure, and would create a way to complain about abuse. Finally, the DHS would be required to keep track of how many searches were done and report the details to Congress. Rep. Sanchez also has also issued a statement about the proposed bill."

Re:Bill To Add Accountability To Border Laptop Sea

[Nerdfest]

It is nice to see Bill doing his job. Most legislation gets passed because of Neil and Bob.

Re:Good Lord!

[Jesus_666]

Hey, at least the USA have taken one step towards being a free, democratic nation. If they keep it up they might become a respected member of the United Nations in less than twenty years.

Re:Good to know.

[mcgrew]

Oh hell, you found me out. I took out all the electronics in my laptop and have been smuggling terrorists in it for months now. I guess I'll have to put them in my shampoo bottle... what? No shampoo bottles either? Wow, those guys are doing a heckuva job, Brownie!

receipt

[noldrin]

personally I think getting a receipt for your stolen property only increases the indignity of the entire situation.

"That is your receipt for your husband, thank you, and this is my receipt for your receipt."

Other changes proposed in the same bill:

[JonToycrafter]

* Unreasonable searches and seizures must be done with a smile or the next one is free

* Verbal abuse from border agents must refrain from using racial/ethnic epithets

* Coupon good for a free McDonald's Happy Meal issued to every person detained without charges by DHS
(Offer valid to U.S. citizens only. Void where prohibited.)

* Michael Chertoff must pinky swear not to laugh when asked if any complaints submitted to DHS are actually, you know, linked to their accountability.

Re:US Citizens only

[nomadic]

While, depending on the airport, immigration to the US was never fun (hello! Miami) the whole affair got absolutely loathsome after DHS called the shots.

Trust me, flying into Miami is never fun no matter what your citizenship status.

Re:no

[Ihlosi]

There is also a test that consists of fitting a square peg into a round hole.

Is that about the practical ability to perform full cavity searches?

Re:no

[Anonymous Coward]

what happened to the guys who saved Europe from fascism 60 years ago?

They had some economic problems then invaded Georgia. Why?