HARRISBURG – In response to increasing reports of unexplained drone activity in Pennsylvania and neighboring New Jersey, Sen. Rosemary M. Brown (R-40) has introduced a resolution urging the federal government to grant state governments the authority to respond to these threats.
Since mid-November, New Jersey has documented more than 3,000 sightings of unidentified drones, some as large as cars, operating near military bases, private residences and other sensitive locations. These incidents are now being reported in Pennsylvania, heightening concerns about public safety and national security.
Brown has also taken direct action by sending a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael Whitaker, calling on the FAA to prioritize addressing the issue and provide states with the authority to act when drones pose a threat.
“Current federal regulations tie the hands of state and local governments, preventing them from taking immediate action when drones threaten the safety and privacy of our communities,” said Brown. “This resolution is a necessary step to empower states to respond swiftly and decisively to these threats.”
FAA regulations severely limit that ability to neutralize or disable drones deemed a danger. Brown’s resolution calls for a change, enabling state governments to act in instances where public safety is at risk.
“This is about giving states the tools they need to protect their residents,” said Brown. “Our communities cannot afford delays caused by federal bureaucracy when faced with potential threats. States must be permitted to respond in real time.”
The resolution comes amid growing frustration with the federal government’s handling of drone-related incidents. Brown highlighted the erosion of public trust, citing the 2023 Chinese spy balloon incident as an example of delayed federal response.
While the resolution serves as a formal call for change, Brown emphasized the need for immediate federal action to address the ongoing drone activity.
“This is a commonsense approach to a pressing issue,” said Brown. “The federal government must act now to empower states to act decisively while improving collaboration to protect public safety.”
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Mackenzie Mueller