A coalition of state attorneys general is demanding changes to proposed federal drone rules.
Led by North Carolina’s Jeff Jackson, ten states are urging the FAA to rethink new drone restrictions. The upcoming federal rules would ban drone flights over prisons, stadiums, and critical infrastructure.
While state officials support the security boost, they warn that the current plan could trap first responders in dangerous red tape.
Under the proposed rules, emergency workers might have to give advance notice before flying rescue or tactical drones over restricted areas. Jackson argues that requirement could cripple search-and-rescue efforts and critical law enforcement actions.
The coalition is pushing the FAA to grant automatic emergency exemptions, protect existing state drone laws, and build a single, centralized database for drone pilots.
