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Bill

HR 13

A Resolution urging the Federal Government to provide State and local governments with the authority to respond swiftly and decisively to unidentified drone threats.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ann Flood and 8 co-sponsors

Non-binding resolution urges federal government to grant state/local authorities faster power to respond to unidentified drones without federal delays.

Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations
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Bill Summary · HR 13

Legislative bill overview

HR 13 is a non-binding resolution urging the federal government to grant state and local authorities expanded powers to respond to unidentified drone incursions. The resolution requests faster decision-making authority and enforcement mechanisms for state and local governments encountering drone threats, rather than requiring federal coordination.

Why is this important

Drone sightings have increased significantly across the U.S., creating confusion about whether they pose security risks and uncertainty about who has legal authority to respond. Currently, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Defense tightly control airspace intervention, which can delay local response to potential threats. This resolution addresses frustration with perceived slow federal response times during recent drone sighting incidents.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal airspace authority conflict: The FAA currently has exclusive jurisdiction over U.S. airspace. Expanding state/local authority could create legal conflicts and uncoordinated responses across state lines, potentially compromising national air traffic management.
  • Weapons deployment concerns: "Swift and decisive response" language is ambiguous about whether it permits shooting down aircraft. Unclear rules of engagement could lead to destruction of civilian drones or misidentification of legitimate aircraft.
  • Privacy and surveillance risks: Expanded local drone detection and response authority could enable warrantless surveillance or overreach without adequate federal oversight and civil liberties protections.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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