Expanding Authority to Counter Drone Threats Near Airports and Local Areas.
The SHIELD U Act grants state, local, and airport law enforcement new powers to detect, track, disrupt, seize, or destroy unauthorized drones posing a threat to safety or security. This legislation aims to enhance public safety, especially around commercial airports, by establishing mandatory response plans and legalizing the use of drone jamming technology under strict federal consultation. Citizens benefit from increased security in critical infrastructure areas, but law enforcement's ability to interfere with private drone operations is significantly expanded.
Key points
Local police and airport security are authorized to use jamming technology (non-kinetic equipment) to neutralize threatening drones, overriding previous federal restrictions on radio interference.
All commercial airports must develop detailed tactical response plans within two years to quickly address drone threats, coordinating with airlines and telecom providers.
The authority to counter drones extends beyond airport boundaries into state and local jurisdictions when an immediate threat to life or property exists.
Federal funding (Airport Improvement Program) can now be used by airports to purchase drone defense equipment.
Introduced
Citizen Poll