By Sarah Calams
WASHINGTON — An advisory guidance document was issued to help non-federal public and private entities understand the federal laws and regulations that may apply to the use of capabilities to detect and mitigate threats posed by UAS operations.
The advisory, which was issued by the Department of Justice, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Communications Commission, gives an overview of:
- Provisions of the U.S. criminal code enforced by the DOJ
- Federal laws and regulations related to aviation safety and efficiency
- Transportation and airport security
- Radiofrequency spectrum administered by the FAA, DHS and FCC
“As the number of drones in our airspace continue to rise, it is unsurprising that the availability of counter-drone technologies has likewise increased,” Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen said. “Because these technologies may be presented for sale without a full discussion of important legal requirements, this Advisory steps forward to provide an outline of the relevant legal landscape. By encouraging a common understanding of potentially applicable laws, the Advisory can help foster responsible industry growth and promote public safety.”
The advisory cautions entities to consider the impacts UAS technology can have on privacy, civil liberties and civil rights, and to remember state or local laws may differ.
You can download the advisory here or read it in full below.
Interagency Legal Advisory on UAS Detection and Mitigation Technologies