Official announcements or legislative actions regarding drone regulations or enforcement

SUV-Sized Drones Over New Jersey Prompt Lawmakers to Demand Federal Action

Dec 12, 2024, 11:08 PM

Since mid-November, mysterious drone sightings over New Jersey have sparked concern among residents, lawmakers, and authorities. Reports indicate that large drones, some described as "the size of SUVs," have been flying over critical infrastructure, including military installations and nuclear bases. Mayor Christine Serrano of Mendham Borough claimed to have personally seen dozens of these craft invading the town's airspace near former President Donald Trump's residence, expressing fears of a foreign attack. Federal agencies, including the FBI, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are investigating the sightings but have yet to provide definitive answers or identify the operators. White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby stated there is no evidence that the drones pose a national security threat or have a foreign nexus. However, some lawmakers, such as Rep. Jeff Van Drew, have suggested the drones could be of Iranian or Chinese origin and criticized the Pentagon's response as "incredibly stupid." Rep. Tim Burchett remarked, "Somebody's testing us and we're failing that test." Democratic senators from New York and New Jersey are demanding briefings from federal agencies and have called for a coordinated approach to provide the public with answers. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand expressed concerns about the drones posing risks to pilots and potentially being used for spying or targeting, stating, "It's highly concerning because what are they doing?" Some officials have even suggested that the drones should be "shot down, if necessary."