H.R. 3598: Deescalation Drone Pilot Program Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Deescalation Drone Pilot Program Act of 2025, aims to establish a program for using small unmanned aircraft (drones) equipped with nonlethal technology in law enforcement and public safety. The objective is to improve response strategies during active shooter events while ensuring that the drones are not armed with dangerous weapons. Below are the key components of the bill:

Establishment of the Pilot Program

The bill requires the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement a pilot program within two months of its enactment. This program will test how nonlethal drones can assist law enforcement officials during active shooter situations.

Provisions and Requirements

• No Weapons: The drones involved in the program cannot be armed with any weapons as defined by existing law.
• Types of Nonlethal Weapons: The drones may be equipped with nonlethal devices such as sound distraction emitters, cameras, targeting sensors, speakers, and strobe lights.
• Consultation: The FAA must work with various stakeholders, including technology providers and law enforcement agencies, to gather input and ensure effective implementation.

Program Contents

The pilot program will focus on several essential aspects:

• Review of Nonlethal Weapons: It will assess the types of nonlethal weapons that can be attached to the drones.
• Training Protocols: Training procedures for law enforcement personnel on how to operate the drones will be established.
• Operational Safety: Guidelines for safe operation and oversight will be put in place to protect both the public and law enforcement officers while using the drones.
• Effectiveness Assessment: The program will evaluate how effective the drones are during indoor active shooter events, especially in providing a safe distance between law enforcement and the assailant.

Report and Future Actions

After the completion of the pilot program, the FAA must report its findings to Congress within three months. This report will include recommendations for a potential broader implementation of the drone technology in law enforcement scenarios.

Manufacturing Requirements

All nonlethal unmanned aircraft used in this pilot program must be manufactured in the United States, adhering to federal guidelines for U.S. manufacturing.

Definitions

• Active Shooter Event: Described as a situation where an individual is unlawfully killing or attempting to kill people, posing a significant threat to life.
• Nonlethal Deescalation Unmanned Aircraft: Drones equipped solely with nonlethal weapons aimed at incapacitating individuals without severe harm.
• Nonlethal Weapon: Devices designed to incapacitate individuals while minimizing fatalities, permanent injury, and property damage.

Relevant Companies

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