I would far rather comment on the benefits of such measures than immediately zero in on the negative aspects of possible misuse.
By "This country" I assume that you are American and referring to the United States of America. Well kat, since 11th September, 2001 your world has changed. The world you live in now is more similar to that bitterly experienced by a whole raft of countries who have been subject to direct terrorist attacks for the past sixty or so years.
As your concern for your rights is so strong that it objects to, and over-rides, perfectly reasonable steps being taken by your government to ensure your safety, all well and good. Get what legislation has been put in place repealled as soon as possible - but you will not turn back the clock, you will only have suceeded in making yourself and your fellow Americans more vulnerable and open to attack.
By the bye, if you still intend handing out those almanacs, any chance of throwing one my way.