H.R.2205 - Nuclear Ecosystem Drone Defense Act; NEDD Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2205, the Nuclear Ecosystem Drone Defense Act (NEDD Act), aims to exempt the Secretary of Energy from certain prohibitions related to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), specifically concerning procurement and operation of drones from covered foreign entities. This bill amends sections of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 and the Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003. It expands the Secretary of Energy's authority to protect nuclear facilities and assets from unmanned aircraft.
Expected Effects
The bill would grant the Secretary of Energy greater autonomy in utilizing drone technology for security purposes, particularly concerning nuclear facilities. This includes exemptions from restrictions on procuring and operating drones from foreign entities under certain conditions. It also clarifies the Secretary's authority regarding classified tracking and accounting exceptions related to these systems.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced security of nuclear facilities and materials.
- Increased flexibility for the Department of Energy in utilizing drone technology.
- Potential for improved monitoring and response capabilities related to nuclear security threats.
- Clarification of the Secretary of Energy's authority in specific areas of drone operation and procurement.
- Modernization of security protocols using advanced technology.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased reliance on foreign drone technology, raising security concerns.
- Possible circumvention of existing regulations designed to protect against foreign espionage.
- Risk of mission creep, where the use of drones expands beyond the original intent.
- Lack of transparency regarding the specific criteria for granting exemptions.
- Potential for unintended consequences related to data privacy and surveillance.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and regulate commerce with foreign nations. The amendments to existing defense authorization acts fall under Congress's purview to legislate on matters of national security. The expansion of the Secretary of Energy's authority could be seen as an exercise of the executive power vested in the President under Article II, as the Secretary acts under the President's direction.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).