Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) has announced new steps in his comprehensive “Drone Response Strategy,” alongside the introduction of bipartisan legislation aimed at equipping law enforcement with advanced tools to address drone-related challenges.
The legislation, known as the RADAR Act, recently gained bipartisan support with the addition of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) as a co-sponsor. It seeks to expand federal grants to provide radar systems for state and local police.
Gottheimer emphasized the need for greater transparency and action from federal agencies regarding recent unexplained drone sightings.
“The people I represent, and Americans across the country, deserve answers and transparency from their government,” said Gottheimer. “I’ll continue working with federal officials, local law enforcement, and state leaders to ensure the public gets the information they need.”
Key Components of the Drone Response Strategy:
- Public Briefings by Federal Agencies:
Gottheimer is introducing a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives urging the FBI, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide public briefings on their knowledge of drone activity. “We need clear answers, not vague statements,” he said. “The public deserves a proper session where these agencies share what they know and take questions.” - Community Reporting System:
A new page on Gottheimer’s congressional website (Gottheimer.House.Gov/Drones) has been launched for New Jersey residents to report drone sightings. The Congressman plans to forward these reports to federal and local authorities for further investigation. - Drone Air Traffic Control System:
To prevent unauthorized drone flights, Gottheimer is advocating for the establishment of a Drone Air Traffic Control System, similar to those used for airplanes. This system would help track larger, non-recreational drones and ensure they operate within legal boundaries. “We can’t have unregistered, unauthorized drones flying over critical infrastructure, military bases, or neighborhoods,” he said. - Enhanced Law Enforcement Resources:
The RADAR Act will help local law enforcement agencies acquire radar systems to track and manage drone activity. Gottheimer emphasized the need to ensure drones operating in the airspace are authorized and properly monitored.
Responding to Public Concern
Gottheimer acknowledged the growing anxiety among his constituents due to increased reports of large drones in northern New Jersey. While federal agencies have stated that there is no imminent public threat, he underscored the importance of addressing the public’s concerns through greater transparency and proactive measures.
“Families in New Jersey and beyond deserve clarity and reassurance,” Gottheimer stated. “Whether these drones are conducting reconnaissance, collecting data, or just unauthorized joyrides, we need answers. Uncertainty breeds anxiety, and that’s unacceptable.”
Bipartisan Legislation to Support Local Law Enforcement
The RADAR Act, which has gained bipartisan support, reflects a collaborative effort to address drone-related challenges at the local level. By providing additional federal resources, the legislation will enable law enforcement to better coordinate with federal agencies and counter unauthorized drone activities.
“We must give our state and local police the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” Gottheimer said. “The RADAR Act ensures only authorized drones operate in our airspace.”
As drone technology becomes more prevalent, Gottheimer emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with safety and security. “New Jersey—or any state—cannot become the Wild West of drones,” he concluded.
For more information or to share a drone sighting, visit Gottheimer.House.Gov/Drones.