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National Training Center for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act

2/21/2025, 12:08 PM

Summary of Bill HR 709

Bill 119 hr 709, also known as the Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Training Act, aims to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to address the growing threat of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the United States. The bill requires the Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security, to establish training programs for individuals operating counter-UAS detection and mitigation systems.

Specifically, the bill mandates that the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security, in collaboration with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, develop standards for initial and recurrent training programs or certifications for individuals operating counter-UAS technology. This training is crucial in order to effectively detect and mitigate potential threats posed by unauthorized UAS in the national airspace.

The bill emphasizes the importance of coordination between various government agencies in order to establish a comprehensive and effective training program. By setting standards for training and certification, the bill aims to ensure that individuals operating counter-UAS systems are properly trained and equipped to respond to potential threats. Overall, Bill 119 hr 709 seeks to enhance national security by addressing the emerging threat of UAS and ensuring that individuals responsible for operating counter-UAS technology are adequately trained and prepared to protect the public and critical infrastructure.

Congressional Summary of HR 709

National Training Center for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act

This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to establish training and qualification standards for counter-unmanned aircraft systems, commonly referred to as counter-drone systems.

Specifically, DHS and DOJ, in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, must establish standards for initial and recurrent training programs or certifications for individuals seeking to operate counter-drone detection and mitigation systems, equipment, or technology.

Further, DOJ, in coordination with DHS's Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, may provide training related to counter-drone systems, including detecting, identifying, monitoring, tracking, disrupting, and seizing control of drones. DOJ may establish or designate one or more facilities or training centers to provide such training related to counter-drone systems.

Current Status of Bill HR 709

Bill HR 709 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 23, 2025. Bill HR 709 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 23, 2025.  Bill HR 709's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Aviation. as of January 24, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 709

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
3
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 709

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 709

To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to require the Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security, to establish counter-UAS system training and require the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to establish related standards for initial and recurrent training programs or certifications for individuals seeking to operate counter-UAS detection and mitigation systems, equipment, or technology, and for other purposes.
To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to require the Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security, to establish counter-UAS system training and require the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to establish related standards for initial and recurrent training programs or certifications for individuals seeking to operate counter-UAS detection and mitigation systems, equipment, or technology, and for other purposes.

Comments

Sponsors and Cosponsors of HR 709

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