Summary of HR 1386: Department of State Domestic Protection Mission for Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Bill Number: HR 1386

Title: To establish a Department of State Domestic Protection Mission relating to unmanned aircraft system and unmanned aircraft.

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced Date: February 14, 2025

Sponsors:

- Cory Mills (Primary Sponsor)

- Michael T. McCaul (Cosponsor)

- Michael Lawler (Cosponsor)

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 1386 is to empower the Secretary of State to take necessary actions to mitigate credible threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and unmanned aircraft (UA) to the safety and security of U.S. facilities and assets. This bill aims to establish a structured approach for the Department of State to address potential risks associated with these technologies.

Key Provisions

Authority and Actions

• Mitigation of Threats: The Secretary of State is authorized to take actions to mitigate credible threats from UAS and UA, including:
  • Detection and Monitoring: Identify, monitor, and track UAS/UA without prior consent.
  • Warnings: Issue warnings to operators through various means.
  • Disruption: Disrupt control of UAS/UA, including disabling them.
  • Seizure: Seize or confiscate UAS/UA.
  • Destruction: Use reasonable force to disable or destroy UAS/UA.

Research and Coordination

• The Secretary of State must conduct research and testing on equipment to ensure its effectiveness before deployment.
• Coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is required to ensure that actions do not interfere with safe airport operations and air traffic services.

Regulations and Guidance

• The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and other relevant agencies, will develop regulations and guidance to implement the provisions of this bill.
• The regulations must ensure compliance with the First and Fourth Amendments of the Constitution regarding communication interception.

Record Keeping and Disclosure

• Communications related to UAS/UA operations must be maintained for a maximum of 180 days unless further retention is justified.
• Disclosure of communications is restricted and can only occur under specific circumstances, such as legal investigations or support for law enforcement.

Funding and Resources

• The Secretary of State is required to submit a consolidated funding display to Congress as part of the annual budget presentation.
• The Secretary may accept supplies, services, or funds from other federal agencies or private entities to facilitate the actions outlined in the bill.

Impact

Affected Entities

• Department of State: Gains expanded authority to address UAS/UA threats.
• Federal Aviation Administration: Will play a critical role in ensuring that actions taken do not compromise air safety.
• Law Enforcement and Security Agencies: May receive support and coordination from the Department of State in addressing UAS/UA threats.

Procedural Aspects

• The bill was introduced and referred to multiple committees, including the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for further consideration.
• The legislative process will involve discussions and potential amendments within these committees before any further action is taken.

Conclusion

HR 1386 seeks to enhance the capabilities of the Department of State in managing threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems and unmanned aircraft. By establishing clear authority and procedures, the bill aims to ensure the safety and security of U.S. facilities while balancing constitutional rights and airspace management.