Definition - What does Patriot Act mean?
The Patriot Act is a piece of legislation that was created and passed in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in America.
The Patriot Act significantly expanded the powers of law enforcement officials to investigate criminal activity in order to try to prevent terrorism. The Patriot Act amended in excess of 15 federal laws.
Justipedia explains Patriot Act
Changes that the Patriot Act made included expanded powers for law enforcement to wiretap suspected terrorists. It gave the government much more authority to investigate phone and Internet records of suspected terrorists, and expanded its ability to conduct searches.
The Patriot Act also expanded the government's power to detain citizens suspected of terrorism, and this legislation was highly influenced by the events of 9/11.
The USA Patriot Act stands for "Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism."
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