Bill > S3481

This bill, titled the SAFER SKIES Act, expands the authority of State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement and correctional agencies to use counter-unmanned aircraft system (counter-UAS) technologies to address threats posed by drones. It allows these agencies, after completing specific training and certification, to take actions to mitigate credible threats from drones to public safety, critical infrastructure, and correctional facilities, including seizing or disabling them. The bill also clarifies that federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice already have this authority. It establishes a national training and certification program for these local agencies, overseen by the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security, and requires them to report any mitigation actions taken. Furthermore, the bill allows grant funds to be used for purchasing and operating drones and counter-drone systems for public safety purposes and increases penalties for various drone-related offenses, including using drones to facilitate felonies or introduce contraband into prisons. The authority for federal agencies to use counter-UAS technologies is set to expire on September 30, 2031, while the authority for State, local, Tribal, and territorial agencies will expire on December 31, 2031.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3481/all-info