(The Center Square) – Increasing reports of unexplained drone activity in the skies over New Jersey and Pennsylvania have caused alarm among state officials who are critical of federal authorities’ response to the threat and demand action.
Amid growing frustration with federal inaction to drone-related incidents, Sen. Rosemary Brown, R-Scotrun, introduced a resolution urging for a response.
Additionally, she sent a letter to Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Michael Whitaker, calling on the agency to prioritize the issue and provide states with the authority to act when drones pose a threat.
The letter states that since mid-November, New Jersey has documented more than 3,000 sightings of unidentified drones, some as large as cars, operating near military bases, private residences and other sensitive locations.
Brown said the incidents reported in Pennsylvania heighten concerns about public safety and national security. She highlighted the erosion of public trust, citing the 2023 Chinese spy balloon incident as an example of delayed federal response.
“Current federal regulations tie the hands of state and local governments, preventing them from taking immediate action when drones threaten the safety and privacy of our communities,” said Brown. “This resolution is a necessary step to empower states to respond swiftly and decisively to these threats.”
FAA regulations severely limit the ability to neutralize or disable drones deemed dangerous. Brown’s resolution calls for a change, enabling state governments to act in instances where public safety is at risk.
While the resolution serves as a formal call for change, Brown emphasized the need for immediate federal action to address the ongoing drone activity.
“This is a commonsense approach to a pressing issue,” said Brown. “The federal government must act now to empower states to act decisively while improving collaboration to protect public safety.”
“This is about giving states the tools they need to protect their residents,” Brown said. “Our communities cannot afford delays caused by federal bureaucracy when faced with potential threats. States must be permitted to respond in real time.”
