H.R. 2205: Nuclear Ecosystem Drone Defense Act

This bill, titled the Nuclear Ecosystem Drone Defense Act or NEDD Act, aims to amend existing laws regarding unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and the authority of the Secretary of Energy. Here are its key provisions:

Exempters for Procurement and Operation

The bill proposes to exempt the Secretary of Energy from certain prohibitions related to the procurement and operation of unmanned aircraft systems from specified foreign entities. These exemptions include:

• Procurement Exemption: The Secretary of Energy would be allowed to procure covered unmanned aircraft systems from foreign entities, which is currently restricted.
• Operation Exemption: The Secretary of Energy would also be permitted to operate these unmanned aircraft systems from the same foreign sources.

Use of Federal Funds

Additionally, the bill allows the Secretary of Energy to use federal funds for procuring and operating unmanned aircraft systems from covered foreign entities, overturning existing restrictions on federal financial support for these activities.

Tracking and Accountability Enhancements

The legislation grants the Secretary of Energy the authority to decide on the usage of classified tracking methods for unmanned aircraft. This includes specifying that the responsibility falls directly on the Secretary of Energy or their designated representatives, rather than simply a "designee".

Accounting Exceptions

It also proposes an accounting exception that would allow the Secretary of Energy to adjust their reporting and oversight obligations regarding financial matters related to these unmanned aircraft systems.

Expansion of Authority for Nuclear Facilities Protection

Finally, the bill expands the authority of the Secretary of Energy concerning the protection of U.S. nuclear facilities from unmanned aircraft systems, specifically those that may operate around locations where:

• Special nuclear material is stored, transported, or used.
• Non-nuclear components for nuclear weapons are researched, designed, manufactured, or produced.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing Company) - As a manufacturer of unmanned aerial systems, potential changes in regulation may impact Boeing's operations or market strategies.
• RTX (Raytheon Technologies Corporation) - Raytheon develops advanced drone technologies, and liability exemptions may open new business opportunities or collaborations in defense contracts.
• FLIR (FLIR Systems, Inc.) - This company is involved in surveillance and detection systems for drones, which could see a shift in demand based on new drone regulations.