USA Patriot Act An act of law passed shortly after the Sept 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States giving law enforcement agencies increased, broad powers to bring those responsible to justice. USA Patriot Act is an acronym for Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act. Investopedia Says: Since its inception, the Patriot Act has been shrouded in controversy. Proponents of the act believe that it is a necessary evil in the face of new threats to America in the ever-changing international political climate. Civil libertarians see it as an unpatriotic means of limiting civil rights, infringing on free-speech, interfering with freedom of the press and infringing on individual privacy rights. Related Terms: Legislative Risk New York Stock Exchange - NYSE Personal Property Political Risk Property |