Schumer: Law Is Needed To Ground Rogue Drones Being Used To Cause Public Harm

Statement

Standing at the Albany FBI Headquarters, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today urged his colleagues in Congress to include his legislation that would require drone manufacturers to implement geo-fencing technology or other similar solutions on all drones, in the upcoming Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill. Schumer's legislation, the Consumer Drone Safety Act, would also require other important drone safety measures, and would improve the ability of law enforcement to take action against reckless users and improve safety by ensuring drones are detectable and identifiable to pilots and air traffic controllers. Schumer cited the recent crash in Albany where a man crashed a drone into one of NYS Capitol's chimneys as just one of many examples for why geo-fencing technology and other important safety features are needed for drones. Schumer introduced the Consumer Drone Safety Act with Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA).

"There needs to be a clear strategy to address the dangers of reckless drone usage. If a drone crashed into a plane by finding its way onto an airport runway, or was able do harm by flying near highly populated areas and buildings, like the NYS Capitol and the Albany FBI Headquarters, we could see immeasurable damage done," said Schumer. "That's why I am urging my colleagues in Congress to include this geo-fencing legislation into the FAA reauthorization bill this fall. By putting strong safeguards in place, we can eliminate near misses and rogue drones from our skies while still allowing hobbyists to fly drones for recreation in safe places."

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