Most of the debate involves a handful of the new powers, such as government access to personal records from medical offices, libraries and businesses.
Sensenbrenner suggested that most of the 16 temporary powers could be made permanent, but that a few would remain subject to a sunset, or expiration date.
“I think it’s evident . . . there’s not going to be a repeal of the sunset,” Sensenbrenner said, referring to the fact that even some Republicans on his committee oppose making all the expiring provisions permanent.