Official title: Grant authority to use counter-unmanned aircraft system technologies to private owners of critical infrastructure facilities, and for other purposes.
Introduced April 22, 2026 by Thomas Bryant Cotton · Last progress April 22, 2026
Senator · R-AR
The bill strengthens protection of energy and other critical infrastructure against hostile drones through funding, certified counter‑UAS authority, and federal coordination—at the cost of increased government spending, operational burdens on operators, potential risks to aviation and public safety, privacy concerns for nearby communities, and reduced legal accountability for authorized actors.
Utilities, energy companies, and the public will gain stronger on-site ability to detect, monitor, warn, and mitigate hostile drones—reducing risk of targeted attacks and large-scale electricity outages.
Owners/operators of covered critical infrastructure can receive federal grants (totaling $250 million FY2027–2031) to buy and operate approved counter‑UAS equipment, offsetting acquisition costs.
A national certification program with Secretary‑certified training and a joint authorized list of technologies creates uniform technical and operational standards, reducing accidental interference with the national airspace and improving safe, consistent responses.
Nearby communities and lawful drone users face increased risks to privacy and civil liberties from counter‑UAS deployments that may surveil or interfere with lawful activity.
Allowing private actors to disrupt drones risks misuse or accidental interference with civilian aircraft, communications, or public safety—potentially endangering people and creating airspace conflicts.
Broad liability immunity for most DHS‑authorized actions reduces victims' legal recourse and may limit compensation for harms caused by counter‑UAS measures.
Based on analysis of 6 sections of legislative text.
Authorizes certified owners/operators of designated critical infrastructure to detect, monitor, and disrupt threatening UAS, creates DHS certification and FAA coordination, and funds $250M in grants (FY2027–2031).
Allows owners and operators of designated high-risk critical infrastructure (like bulk power system sites) and their trained, certified personnel or contractors to detect, monitor, warn, and disrupt unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that pose credible threats. Creates a DHS-led national certification program, requires FAA coordination and reporting, provides liability protections for authorized actions (except for gross negligence or willful misconduct), and authorizes $250 million in grants (FY2027–2031) to buy, install, and operate approved counter‑UAS systems. The authority for private owners/operators sunsets on September 30, 2031.
