Reading Room Document
Adequacy of Authority to Investigate Domestic Terrorism
The document discusses the adequacy of the FBI's legal authority for domestic intelligence activities and the recurring congressional interest in the legal bases for investigatory activity by the Executive branch. The conclusion reached is that there is a push-pull aspect to congressional interest, with Congress sometimes concerned about limiting investigatory authority and at other times concerned about the deficiency of authority and response mechanisms. The questions presented for review include the need for new legislation, if any, and the suggestion for a joint briefing by Kevin Maroney and the FBI on the matter.
The OLC's Opinions
Opinions published by the OLC, including those released in response to our FOIA lawsuit