Cotton pushes bill to help critical infrastructure defend against drone threat
Summary
Senator Tom Cotton has introduced a bill that would let certain private operators protect important infrastructure, like power plants and water treatment facilities, from dangerous drones. The bill would allow trained and certified security staff to detect and stop drones that pose real threats, closing gaps in current laws that restrict private counter-drone actions.Key Facts
- The bill is called the "Critical Infrastructure Airspace Defense Act."
- It would let operators of sensitive sites take action against unauthorized drones after federal training and certification.
- Targeted sites include nuclear plants, power substations, and water treatment facilities, especially in the energy sector.
- The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would create a certification program and approve technology within 180 days.
- The bill authorizes $250 million over five years to help buy and use counter-drone systems.
- Operators acting under this law would have legal protection except for serious negligence or misconduct.
- DHS must report regularly to Congress about the use of this authority.
- The authority would expire in 2031 unless Congress renews it.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.