Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act expired Friday after both chambers of Congress failed to pass legislation extending the warrantless surveillance authorities. The lapse occurred despite ongoing debates about the program's renewal and reform.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) criticized lawmakers on Sunday for the failure to act, calling on her colleagues to "stop playing the politics" surrounding the FISA extension. Her comments came amid finger-pointing between parties over who was responsible for allowing the authorities to expire.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned Sunday that the department is facing a threat level that is the "highest it's ever been" following the lapse of the surveillance powers. Mullin emphasized the security implications of allowing Section 702 to expire during a period of heightened security concerns.

Section 702 allows intelligence agencies to conduct warrantless surveillance of foreign nationals located outside the United States, though the program has faced criticism from privacy advocates and some lawmakers who argue it can inadvertently collect communications of American citizens.

The expiration comes as Congress continues to debate potential reforms to the surveillance program, with some members pushing for additional privacy protections while others argue the authorities are essential for national security. Lawmakers will need to address the lapse when they return to session.