Bill > S1793

This bill, known as the COUNTER Act (Comprehensive Operations for Unmanned-System Neutralization and Threat Elimination Response Act), amends existing law to enhance the Department of Defense's ability to protect U.S. assets from potential threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems (drones). The bill expands the Secretary of Defense's authority to take actions against unauthorized unmanned aircraft, including delegating this power to military commanders and other Defense Department officials. It provides exemptions from certain legal restrictions for defensive actions taken outside the United States, particularly those related to mitigating drone threats. The legislation also creates new provisions for information protection, allowing the government to keep certain technological procedures and protocols confidential and exempt from public disclosure. Additionally, the bill extends existing authorities related to unmanned aircraft mitigation until December 31, 2030, and broadens the scope of permitted defensive actions to include protecting Defense Department properties, assisting in emergency responses, and supporting other federal agencies in threat mitigation. The bill specifically allows for the use of remote identification and other technological means to identify and neutralize potential drone-related threats to U.S. national security.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1793/all-info