Long Island residents are split over President Bush's signing statement that may allow mail searches without a warrant.

After signing a postal reform bill into law December 20, President Bush used his executive authority to allow the government to legally open a person's mail without a warrant. The New York Civil Liberties Union says his signing statement is yet another egregious offense to a citizen's right to privacy, along with the illegal wiretapping program. While many on the Island agree, several others believe the measure is necessary to fight terrorism.

Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) believes Bush took unwarranted liberties with his signing statement, calling it an unauthorized reinterpretation of the law. The White House maintains the U.S. policy has not been changed by Bush's actions.