Congressman Yakym, colleagues introduce bill to counter drones

Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN) has joined a bipartisan coalition to introduce the Disabling Enemy Flight Entry and Neutralizing Suspect Equipment (DEFENSE) Act, legislation that permits trained state and local law enforcement officers to intercept and disable hostile drones at stadiums and other large-scale events protected by temporary flight restrictions.

“The DEFENSE Act allows local law enforcement to step in when drones threaten large public events,” Yakym said. “Whether it’s a sold-out game or a concert, this act ensures people can enjoy these moments without worrying about what’s flying overhead.”

Current law authorizes only federal authorities to counter rogue drone incursions. While state and local authorities often have a larger presence at sporting events, the gap created in real-time event security denies state and local officials the ability to address unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that threaten the safety of the stadium attendees. The DEFENSE Act would change that by authorizing the Department of Homeland (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to extend temporary authority to state and local officers — provided they receive proper training and oversight — to use approved counter-UAS technology to detect, monitor and respond to airborne threats. Authorized equipment would be limited to systems approved by DHS in coordination with DOJ, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The bill also requires full federal oversight and compliance with airspace and privacy laws.

Rep. Yakym joined Reps. Greg Steube (R-FL), Dina Titus (D-NV), Cory Mills (R-FL), Jill Tokuda (D-HI) and Lou Correa (D-CA), as well as Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) who have proposed companion legislation in the Senate.

“Whether it’s a packed stadium or a large outdoor gathering, our communities deserve to enjoy these moments without fear of surveillance or disruption from above,” said Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL). “The DEFENSE Act gives law enforcement the tools they need to protect Americans attending high-profile events from dangerous and unauthorized drones.”

“People travel to Las Vegas from all over the world to experience our world class entertainment and live sporting events,” said Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV). “I am proud to co-lead this bill to give our state and local law enforcement the tools they need to keep fans, athletes, performers, and stadium workers safe from aerial threats.”

“With the growing number of drones in use it is paramount that our state and local law enforcement agencies are able to be granted the proper authority to protect citizens at large events and gatherings,” said Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL). “Events like NASCAR races, rallies, or other large public events should be safe and this bill provides the ability for local law enforcement agencies to protect their citizens.”

The legislation has the backing of numerous national sports organizations, including the NFL, MLB, NCAA and NASCAR, which have all expressed support for expanding drone countermeasure authority to protect fans, players and event staff.

Read the full bill here.