H.R.3796 - Safety from Aerial Technology Act; SAT Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3796, the Safety from Aerial Technology Act (SAT Act), aims to amend Title 49 of the United States Code. The bill directs the Secretary of Transportation to authorize the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and satellites for inspecting the rights-of-way of certain pipeline facilities. This is intended to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of pipeline inspections.
The bill specifies that the Secretary shall allow the use of UAS and satellites when requiring owners or operators to inspect surface conditions on or adjacent to pipeline rights-of-way. It also includes a rule of construction clarifying that the use of these technologies must comply with existing laws and regulations regarding UAS and satellite operation.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 6, 2025, and referred to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, and Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would likely lead to increased use of drones and satellites in pipeline inspections. This could result in more frequent and comprehensive monitoring of pipeline infrastructure.
This may also lead to earlier detection of potential issues, such as leaks or encroachments, potentially preventing accidents and environmental damage. The bill also clarifies that existing regulations regarding the operation of UAS and satellites would still apply.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced pipeline safety through more frequent and comprehensive inspections.
- Reduced risk of pipeline accidents and environmental damage.
- Increased efficiency in pipeline monitoring, potentially lowering operational costs.
- Improved ability to detect and address potential issues early on.
- Encouragement of innovation in pipeline inspection technologies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential privacy concerns related to the use of aerial surveillance technologies.
- Possible job displacement for traditional pipeline inspectors.
- Increased regulatory burden on pipeline operators to manage UAS and satellite data.
- Risk of cybersecurity vulnerabilities associated with UAS and satellite systems.
- Potential for increased noise pollution from drone operations in certain areas.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. Pipelines are a key component of interstate commerce, and regulating their safety falls under this power.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights. However, the use of UAS and satellites could raise potential Fourth Amendment concerns regarding unreasonable search and seizure, depending on how the technology is deployed and regulated.
Further legislation and regulation would need to ensure that privacy rights are protected and that any surveillance is conducted in a manner consistent with constitutional principles.
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).