Burlison Introduces Bill to Expand Counter-Drone Authority for State and Local Law Enforcement

Washington — Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO-07) introduced the Counter Drone State and Local Defender Act, legislation that would authorize state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies to deploy counter-drone systems to protect high-risk facilities and major public events. 

Specifically, the bill enhances public safety and bolsters national security by establishing a three-year pilot program authorizing up to 4,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide to detect and mitigate hostile drones threatening critical infrastructure. This legislation also authorizes a separate expedited pilot program for up to 40 agencies in the 11 U.S. host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with operations running from March through September 2026. 

"Drone technology is increasingly being exploited for criminal activity," Burlison said. "Local law enforcement is often the first to confront these threats, but current law limits their ability to respond. This bill closes that gap while maintaining strong privacy and civil liberties protections." 

The Federal Aviation Administration, in coordination with the Department of Justice, Federal Communications Commission, and National Telecommunications and Information Administration, would approve eligible counter-drone equipment and certify participating agencies. Agencies must complete mandatory training, use only approved equipment, certify compliance with privacy protections, and submit regular reports on system usage. 

Following the pilot period, the bill establishes a permanent authorization pathway allowing qualified agencies to register for ongoing counter-drone capabilities. The legislation relies on existing federal grant programs for equipment acquisition, training, and operations, and complements the $500 million counter-drone initiative launched by the Trump administration ahead of the World Cup.