Should Congress allow DHS more freedom to address any UAS (drone) threats?
This bill extends counter-UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) authorities for DHS and DOJ through October 1, 2028, addressing the growing UAS threat. It enhances coordination among DHS, DOJ, DOT, and FAA, while strengthening privacy protections by limiting the misuse and retention of data from counter-UAS systems. The act prohibits using counter-UAS technologies from certain foreign manufacturers, grants DHS investigative and airport protection authority, and requires FAA to establish system performance standards. It enables DHS to authorize counter-UAS systems for critical infrastructure and mandates a pilot program allowing state law enforcement to mitigate UAS threats. Additionally, the legislation requires the development of training standards and a comprehensive FAA-led plan for counter-UAS operations at airports.
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Green (Republican, Tennessee, District 7)
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Opponents say
• "No one disputes that drones flying in airspace could be a danger, the drones flying over the superbowl could be a danger, the drones flying over our military bases could be a danger. That's why it's illegal. It's currently illegal and the federal government has the capacity to investigate and stop drones that are in airspace over our military bases, following our ships, we have that capacity. But what is disputed and what the Biden administration is currently telling us is they don’t see a problem. So if there’s a problem, let the Biden administration be forthcoming, let us know the extent of the problem, let us know who’s flying the drones." Source: Sen. Paul Rand (Republican, Kentucky)
Proponents say
• "This legislation meets the moment by ensuring DHS and DOJ have the appropriate authorities to act swiftly and decisively to detect, track, and mitigate hostile drone use, and to coordinate effectively with other agencies like the FAA or law enforcement partners in this pursuit. At the same time, this bill protects the privacy and freedom of Americans who use these innovative technologies in a legal and responsible manner." Source: Rep. Mark Green (Republican, Tennessee, District 7)
• "This legislation provides the foundation for a safe and responsible expansion of counter-drone technologies, putting in place a framework that will ensure public safety and security. It ensures all levels of law enforcement are working in concert to secure the nation’s airspace, airports, and citizens. Building on the success of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, it will work to safely integrate counter-drone technologies at scale while keeping communities safe and protecting individuals’ privacy. I thank the cosponsors, Chair Sam Graves and the leaders of the committees of jurisdiction, for their work on this critical bill." Source: Rep. Rick Larsen (Democrat, Washington, District 2)
• "This legislation is the product of months of bipartisan collaboration. Our final product allows the agencies that protect our critical infrastructure to do their jobs and permits law-abiding drone hobbyists and commercial UAS users to continue to use their devices. Strong privacy protections for drone user data, mandated disposal of communications information, and comprehensive agency reporting requirements will ensure that all Americans can continue to use and innovate UAS technology going forward." Source: Rep. Jerry Nadler (Democrat, New York, District 12)
- Homeland Security, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Judiciary Committee Leaders Introduce Bipartisan Counter-Drone Bill Am
- FAA temporarily bans drones in parts of New Jersey, New York adds flight restrictions - (ABC News)
- Sightings Are Mix of Legal Drones, Planes and Stars, Officials Say (The New York Times)
- President Joe Biden seeks to reassure US over drone mystery (BBC)
- Rep. Mark Green’s Largest Donors (OpenSecrets)
