Officials in New York and New Jersey are ramping up pressure on the federal government to better regulate drones following an uptick in reported sightings. A recent event caused a stir at a New York airport, prompting Gov. Kathy Hochul to strongly advocate for legislative changes. "This has gone too far," Hochul said, as reported by Gothamist, after a drone sighting led to the temporary shutdown of Stewart International Airport runways.
The manifestation of these incidents has not only spurred local action but garnered the attention of lawmakers on a national level. Rep. Chris Smith, (R-N.J.), announced during a news conference in Seaside Heights, New Jersey, his intent to quickly progress with legislation that would empower state and local authorities to more effectively track and deal with rogue drones. "This crisis really is the ultimate wake-up call to threats posed by potentially hostile drones," Smith told ABC7NY.
In response to the slew of drone sightings near infrastructure deemed critical, and with an apparent legislative push on both a state and national scale, concerns are steadily mounting. Governor Hochul is pushing for the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act to be passed, which would enhance the FAA's regulatory powers over drones, as ABC7NY elucidates. Yet despite efforts, federal officials maintain that many of the drone reports likely do not constitute national or public security threats.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy voiced his consternation over the relative inaction from federal entities. The FAA, for their part, has laid out clear guidelines for drone usage and has established temporary flight restrictions in sensitive zones, but this has not entirely allayed public fears. According to FAA officials cited by ABC7NY, the agency received initial reports of drone activity on November 18, prompting the issuance of TFRs over Picatinny Arsenal and Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey.
Despite reassurances, the reality on the ground has prompted widespread calls for clearer communication and definitive action. Local leaders, mirroring Smith's and Hochul's concerns, are seeking not merely to get ahead of the problem but to actively engage in counteractive measures, ensuring that the community's safety and security remain the top priority amidst these airborne uncertainties.
