S.1250 - Stopping Harmful Incidents to Enforce Lawful Drone Use Act; SHIELD U Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1250, the SHIELD U Act, aims to authorize counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) activities at and around commercial service airports and within state jurisdictions. It defines C-UAS activities, establishes protocols for their implementation, and mandates coordination among federal, state, and local agencies. The bill also addresses the use of non-kinetic equipment and jamming technologies, and it includes provisions for federal law enforcement training and contracting to protect facilities from unmanned aircraft.
Expected Effects
The SHIELD U Act would expand the authority of law enforcement agencies to detect, identify, and mitigate potential threats posed by drones. This includes allowing for the disruption, seizure, or destruction of unmanned aircraft deemed to pose a threat. The Act also establishes processes for testing and deploying counter-UAS technologies, requiring coordination with federal agencies like the FCC and NTIA.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced security at commercial airports by mitigating drone-related threats.
- Increased public safety through the ability to counter unauthorized drone activities in state jurisdictions.
- Promotion of technological innovation in counter-UAS technologies through testing and evaluation programs.
- Improved coordination and communication among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
- Standardization of training and best practices for counter-UAS activities.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for infringement on individual privacy rights due to expanded surveillance and interception capabilities.
- Risk of misuse or abuse of authority by law enforcement agencies in conducting counter-UAS activities.
- Possible disruption of legitimate drone operations and commercial activities.
- Concerns about the effectiveness and safety of non-kinetic equipment and jamming technologies.
- Increased costs associated with the implementation of counter-UAS programs and equipment.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The SHIELD U Act raises potential Fourth Amendment concerns regarding unreasonable searches and seizures, as it allows for the detection, identification, monitoring, and tracking of unmanned aircraft without prior consent. The Act attempts to address these concerns by stating that C-UAS activities should be carried out in a manner consistent with the Fourth Amendment. However, the broad definitions of 'threats' and 'Counter-UAS activities' could lead to interpretations that infringe upon individual liberties.
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).