Senate Blocks FISA Extension; Anti-CBDC Rider Stalled

The US Senate voted 47-52 on June 5 to block a procedural motion extending Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. The authority expires June 12.

Seven Republican senators-Rand Paul, Mike Lee, Josh Hawley, John Kennedy, Eric Schmitt, Rick Scott, and Tommy Tuberville-joined nearly all Democrats in opposition. Republican concerns centered on civil liberties; Democrats objected to President Trump's appointment of Bill Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence.

For crypto watchers, the House-passed extension included the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, prohibiting the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency. That provision is now stalled alongside the surveillance powers.

A Fed-issued digital dollar would compete with stablecoins like USDT and USDC. With under a week until expiration, Senate leadership may attempt a modified vote or another short-term extension.