SLC Times

Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has proposed two new pieces of legislation in the 119th Congress, aimed at enhancing the ability of state and local law enforcement to address drone-related threats. The Stopping Harmful Incidents to Enforce Lawful Drone Use Act (SHIELD-U) and the Drone Integration and Zoning Act are designed to provide the necessary authority to local agencies to protect their communities and airports from the increasing risks posed by drones.

Sen. Lee stated, “State and local law enforcement agencies cannot ensure the safety of their communities when the federal government restricts their ability to respond to active drone threats.” He emphasized that the proposed legislation will allow local authorities “to quickly identify and mitigate threats,” particularly because the federal response may be hampered by limited resources and capital.

Currently, the regulatory framework limits state and local governments' ability to counter drone threats. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates navigable airspace, defined traditionally as the area above 500 feet. However, the FAA has also exercised jurisdiction over much lower altitudes in the context of drone operations.

Federal law grants detection and takedown privileges for drones exclusively to departments such as Defense, Homeland Security, Justice, and Energy. A report by the Blue Ribbon Task Force, commissioned by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International and Airports Council International-North America, highlighted the challenges faced by the federal government due to inadequate human resources and capital to operate counter-drone technology, particularly at airports.

The SHIELD-U and Drone Integration and Zoning Acts seek to overcome these regulatory challenges and deficiencies by empowering state and local enforcement agencies. These measures aim to ensure public safety by enabling localized quick response to drone threats, termed inadequate under current federal regulations.

The text of the SHIELD-U Act and the Drone Integration and Zoning Act can be accessed for further details.