Ore. Senator Blocks Anti-Leak Bill over Free Speech Issues

Fears it would lead to retaliation against whistle-blowers

WASHINGTON - Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Wednesday blocked a key intelligence bill, arguing that language intended to prevent leaks was poorly written, a threat to free speech and public understanding of important security issues.

Wyden's action came as the Obama Administration and many members of Congress are pushing hard to pass the 2013 Intelligence Authorization before the current law expires at the end of the year. Sponsors hoped the bill would slide through the Senate by unanimous consent but Wyden's singular objection blocked it.