Renewal of controversial surveillance law screeches to a halt in the House

The U.S. House blocked floor consideration of legislation to extend FISA Section 702 before its April 19 expiration, with a coalition of Republicans and Democrats objecting over warrant requirements and oversight, prompting Speaker Mike Johnson to seek a new plan; while privacy advocates criticized 702 and national security officials defended it as vital for cybersecurity investigations, the failed rule vote reflects internal divisions and the prospect of a clean Senate extension.