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Writer's pictureGarrett G. Connolly

The Drones for First Responders Act - Politics Over Safety

In recent months, the proposed Drones for First Responders (DFR) Act has stirred significant debate across the country. While its proponents tout the legislation as a necessary measure to enhance national security and support domestic drone manufacturing, the reality for first responders paints a much grimmer picture. This Act, rather than providing the needed support, threatens to limit access to essential equipment that first responders rely on to save lives every day. It is also anti-competitive, and flies right in the face of the free market values we cherish as Americans.

Impact on First Responders

First responders, including firefighters, police officers, and search and rescue teams, have increasingly integrated drones into their operations. They provide critical advantages, such as rapid aerial reconnaissance, thermal imaging for locating individuals in low visibility conditions, and the ability to access hazardous areas without risking human lives. Currently, about 90% of the drones used by these professionals are manufactured by DJI.


The DFR Act aims to impose steep tariffs on drones imported from China, starting at 30% and increasing annually. By 2030, it would ban drones containing any critical components manufactured in China. This approach directly targets the drones that first responders depend on, significantly increasing their costs and potentially rendering them unaffordable.


Higher Costs and Limited Access

The immediate consequence of this legislation will be a sharp rise in the cost of acquiring and maintaining drone fleets. First responders, often operating on tight budgets, will struggle to replace their current drones with American-made alternatives, which are not only more expensive but also lag behind in technological advancements and reliability. The funding provisions in the Act, while helpful, are unlikely to cover the full spectrum of needs, leaving many departments underfunded and underequipped.


A Questionable Push for National Security

Proponents of the DFR Act argue that it addresses national security concerns by reducing dependency on Chinese-made drones, which they claim pose potential data vulnerabilities. However, the same components manufactured in China could still be utilized by U.S. manufacturers assembling drones domestically. This loophole raises questions about the actual security benefits of the Act and suggests that the primary motive might not be national security at all.


The Skydio Factor

A closer look reveals that the push for this legislation is not just about security but also about market dynamics. Companies like Skydio, an American drone manufacturer, have struggled to compete with DJI in terms of technology and price. Instead of focusing on improving their products to match the quality and affordability of DJI, Skydio and its allies are lobbying Congress to effectively eliminate their competition through legislation.


It does not come as a surprise that the current director of federal policy at Skydio, Joe Bartlet, also happens to be the former National Security Advisor for Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who proposed this bill. This connection raises questions about a conflict of interest and if this policy is influenced more by corporate gain than by genuine public interest.


Call to Action

First responders across the country are rightfully anxious about the potential impact of the DFR Act. The disruptions to their operations could be severe, hampering their ability to perform life-saving tasks efficiently. As this bill garners support in Congress, it's crucial for the public and industry stakeholders to voice their concerns. Here’s how we all can help our first responders continue to utilize the life-saving equipment they need:


  1. Visit the Drone Advocacy Alliance website to send a prewritten email to your congressional representatives, expressing your opposition to the DFR Act.

  2. If you’re a member of AUVSI, reach out to your local chapter or leadership to express your disagreement and advocate for policies that genuinely support first responders.


The Drones for First Responders Act, while purportedly aimed at enhancing national security, poses a significant threat to the efficacy and affordability of critical drone technology for first responders. By imposing tariffs and eventual bans on widely-used drones, this legislation risks undermining the very programs that save lives every day. The motivations behind this Act appear to be driven more by market competition than by genuine security concerns. It's imperative to reconsider this legislation and focus on solutions that truly benefit public safety professionals and the communities they serve.

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