Pros, cons of Patriot Act discussed

The USA Patriot Act, signed into law in response to the 2001 terrorist attacks, is now the subject of intense debate over the intelligence-gathering powers of the U.S. government versus the privacy rights of its citizens. The issue will be explored from both sides in an an Open Forum on the Patriot Act, held 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, September 18 at Grand Valley State University.

Margaret Chiara, U.S. attorney for the Western District of Michigan, will give an overview of the Patriot Act, which President Bush signed into law on October 26, 2001. Chiara's presentation will be followed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lloyd Meyer, who will provide insights on the Patriot Act's significance in the nation's war on terrorism.

Grand Valley professors will address concerns relating to the protection of citizens' constitutional rights. They are Mark Richards, assistant professor of political science, and Jeff Steffel, assistant professor of criminal justice and a retired command officer with the Michigan State Police.

James Bolger, director of Grand Valley's School of Criminal Justice, will moderate the discussion, which will be followed by an audience question-answer period. The forum is open to the public.

Open Forum on the Patriot Act
September 18, 7-9 p.m.
Loosemore Auditorium, DeVos Center
401 W. Fulton St. in Grand Rapids