Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) prevented Senate Democrats on Wednesday from advancing a bill designed to authorize and provide funding for state and local authorities to track unusual drone sightings reported in states like New Jersey and New York.
Paul criticized the proposal, arguing that it would unnecessarily expand government surveillance powers while minimizing concerns about potential public threats posed by these drones.
“This chamber should not rush to grant broad surveillance powers without thorough examination and debate within the appropriate committees,” Paul stated, anticipating his upcoming role as the Senate Homeland Security Committee chair.
Proposed drone tracking bill sparks privacy and security concerns in SenateHe emphasized that existing federal laws already grant authority to address drone activity in restricted areas such as commercial airspace, military installations, and major events like the Super Bowl.
Citing recent media coverage, Paul noted that sightings of mysterious drones over states including New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut have garnered public interest. However, he questioned the administration’s dismissal of these concerns, stating, “The Biden administration claims there’s nothing unusual. Before enacting legislation, we should first determine what’s actually occurring and assess any potential risks.”
Paul pointed to statements from federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, asserting that the drones do not currently pose a threat to public safety or national security.
The blocked bill, sponsored by Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and supported by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), sought to enhance collaboration between local law enforcement, the Defense Department, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to better monitor drone activity.
Over 5,000 drone sightings have been reported to the FBI in recent weeks, prompting federal agencies to assist state and local officials with investigations. A joint statement from the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, FAA, and Department of Defense described these sightings as a mix of legitimate commercial and recreational drones, law enforcement drones, aircraft, helicopters, and even stars mistakenly identified as drones.