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SAFE Drones Act
3/8/2023, 8:12 PM
Summary of Bill HR 5640
Key provisions of the SAFE Drones Act include requiring all drones to be equipped with remote identification technology, which would allow authorities to track and identify drones in real-time. This measure is intended to prevent unauthorized drone flights in restricted airspace and enhance accountability for drone operators.
Additionally, the bill mandates that all drone operators undergo a certification process and obtain a license in order to operate a drone legally. This requirement is designed to ensure that drone operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate drones safely and responsibly. Furthermore, the SAFE Drones Act includes provisions for establishing designated no-fly zones for drones, such as around airports and other sensitive areas. This measure is intended to prevent potential collisions between drones and manned aircraft, as well as protect critical infrastructure from unauthorized drone activity. Overall, the SAFE Drones Act seeks to strike a balance between promoting innovation and economic growth in the drone industry, while also prioritizing safety and security concerns. The bill has garnered bipartisan support in Congress and is currently under consideration for further debate and potential passage into law.
Congressional Summary of HR 5640
Stop Acquiring Foreign Espionage Act of 2021 or the SAFE Drones Act
This bill bans the procurement or use by the federal government of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that are manufactured or assembled by foreign adversaries, with exceptions.
The ban includes associated elements that are required for the operator to operate safely and efficiently in the national airspace system.
The Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Justice are exempt from the restriction under specified circumstances. The bill sets forth further exemptions regarding the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Transportation Safety Board, and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.
Federal funds may not be used to procure certain UAS from a foreign adversary, with exceptions. All executive agencies must account for existing inventories of UAS manufactured or assembled by a foreign adversary in their personal property accounting systems. Inventory data related to UAS manufactured or assembled by a foreign adversary may be tracked at a classified level.
The Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council shall prescribe regulations or guidance to implement this bill's requirements pertaining to federal contracts.
Government-issued purchase cards may not be used to procure any UAS from a foreign adversary.
The Office of Management and Budget shall (1) establish a government-wide policy for the procurement of UAS, taking into account information security; and (2) contract with a federally funded research and development center to study certain UAS-related issues.
