S.Amdt. 3660

SA 3660, submitted by Mr. Warner, aims to add a section to bill S. 2296 regarding counter-UAS systems. The purpose of this amendment is to create a commission within the Department of Homeland Security to study and provide recommendations for expanding the capabilities and authorities of several government entities to counter unmanned aircraft systems.

The amendment seeks to add the following to the bill:

• Establishment of a Commission: A commission will be formed in the Department of Homeland Security to look at expanding counter-UAS capabilities for the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, the Department of Transportation, and Federal law enforcement.

• Required Study: The Secretary of Homeland Security, working with other secretaries and the Federal Aviation Administration Administrator, must complete a study within 180 days. This study will examine gaps in authority and capability to detect, track, disrupt, and defeat unmanned aircraft systems. It will include data on deployments, requests for support, and an assessment of current authorities and coordination structures for special events.

• Recommendations to Congress: Within 90 days after the study is finished, the Secretary of Homeland Security must report findings and recommendations to Congress. These recommendations will cover:

  • The structure for a Federal interagency task force.
  • Additional authority needed for the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice.
  • Additional authority needed for the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and the Federal Aviation Administration.
  • Needed equipment, training, and personnel for Federal agencies.
  • Expanding authority for territorial, Tribal, local, and State law enforcement.

• Administrative Details: The commission will end 90 days after the report is submitted. The amendment specifies that no additional money is authorized for these activities, as they will use funds already appropriated to the Department of Homeland Security.