Houston Daily

Congressmen Troy E. Nehls and Don Davis have introduced the De-escalation Drone Pilot Program Act of 2025 in Washington, D.C. This legislation aims to establish a pilot program within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to explore the use of non-lethal de-escalation drones by law enforcement agencies at various levels. The drones would be used in situations such as active shooter events, providing an alternative to placing officers directly in harm's way. The bill also mandates that the FAA develop a process for SWAT teams to request authorization to operate these drones.

The current FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 broadly prohibits operating unmanned aircraft equipped with weapons capable of causing serious injury in federally regulated airspace. This restriction affects SWAT officers' ability to use drones with non-lethal weapons attached. The new act defines "non-lethal de-escalation unmanned aircraft" specifically for use in high-risk scenarios, including active shooter situations, where human life is significantly threatened.

All devices used under this program must be manufactured in the United States.

Congressman Nehls stated, “As a former Texas Sheriff and law enforcement officer, I know firsthand the unique situations and unprecedented dangers our nation’s law enforcement officers face each and every day to keep our communities safe and to protect the citizens they serve.” He added that his legislation equips officers with effective tools for conflict resolution.

Congressman Davis remarked, “We must do everything we can to de-escalate dangerous situations and assist our emergency response teams on the frontlines,” emphasizing the potential benefits of exploring non-lethal drone usage for law enforcement.

The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Brad Finstad, Clay Higgins, Lauren Boebert, Pete Stauber, Barry Moore, Dan Newhouse, Ryan Zinke, Tony Wied, and Celeste Maloy. Supporting organizations include the National Fraternal Order of Police along with several other major law enforcement groups.