I think the terminology you're using is confusing and not specific enough to provide a good answer. Assuming that you're asking a serious question, I am under the assumption that the author, per his direct quotes from the article, was referring to any such activities permissible under FISA.
BTW, this was the last important piece of legislation that Bush signed into law. From what I've read, certain concessions were made in order for the bill to get passed, but I think this shows how smart and prioritized Bush actually is, especially considering his lame duck status.