Story perspectives

Cotton Bill Shifts Counter-Drone Power to Private Operators

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Critical Infrastructure Airspace Defense Act would move counter-drone authority from federal agencies to certified private operators of high-risk sites.
Senator Tom Cotton introduced the bill in Washington and it now awaits congressional action.
The Department of Homeland Security must create a certification program within 180 days.
The legislation authorizes $250 million over five years for operators to purchase approved counter-drone systems, drawing industry support and civil-liberties warnings about privacy.

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Story summary

The Critical Infrastructure Airspace Defense Act would move counter-drone authority from federal agencies to certified private operators of high-risk sites.
Senator Tom Cotton introduced the bill in Washington and it now awaits congressional action.
The Department of Homeland Security must create a certification program within 180 days.
The legislation authorizes $250 million over five years for operators to purchase approved counter-drone systems, drawing industry support and civil-liberties warnings about privacy.