Reports National Journal:
The Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security Subcommittee debated legislation offered by Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah., that would require the government to show probable cause and obtain a warrant before requesting geolocation information from cell phones or other devices. The bill includes some exceptions for bypassing the standard such as for emergencies involving possible death or serious harm and national security.
Chaffetz and other supporters argue that Congress needs to step in and clarify the rules for when law enforcement can access geolocation data, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s January decision in United States v. Jones. In that case, the high court ruled that law enforcement must obtain a warrant before attaching a GPS device to a suspect’s car.
"Just because it can be done doesn't mean it necessarily should be done," Chaffetz said.
(See also related The Hill story.)
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