A new controversy surrounding the FBI's surveillance tactics is one for the Internet age.

The bureau wants to clarify federal law to ensure its agents can gather information about a person's e-mail traffic and Web surfing practices without having to go to court where a judge could refuse the request.

A 2008 opinion by the Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel has cast doubt on whether the FBI can collect the information using so-called national security letters just signed by a bureau official. The Obama administration is seeking an amendment to clarify the FBI's authority.

Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Patrick Leahy of Vermont says the administration's request raises privacy concerns. He plans hearings this fall.

©2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.