hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Allows NASA, space launch sites to disable/seize drones near their facilities.
Rep. Soto (D-FL) and Rep. Dunn (R-FL) introduced.
Introduced in the House and sent to committee for review.
This bill, known as the STAR Act, grants the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and private space launch companies the power to detect, track, disable, or even destroy unmanned aircraft systems (drones) that pose a threat to their critical facilities or property. Representatives Darren Soto (Democrat from Florida) and Neal Dunn (Republican from Florida) introduced this bipartisan measure. It has been referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology for consideration, which means it will undergo review and potential amendments before a possible vote by the full House of Representatives.
Introduced Apr 22, 2026
This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 22, 2026. It has been referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. For the bill to move forward, the committee must consider it, potentially hold hearings, and then vote to send it to the full House for a floor vote. If it passes the House, it would then go to the Senate for their review and vote, and ultimately to the President for signature to become law.
If this bill becomes law, NASA facilities and licensed space launch sites would be required to display signs informing the public about the authorized actions against drones. If you fly a drone near one of these designated critical facilities or properties, authorities could detect, track, disrupt control of, seize, or even destroy your unmanned aircraft if it is deemed a threat. Furthermore, if your drone is identified as a threat and authorities take action to mitigate it, you, as the drone's operator, would be liable for any damages caused by that action, such as a drone crashing after being disabled.
Supporters Say
Supporters believe this bill is necessary to protect critical space infrastructure and personnel from drone threats.
Critics Say
Critics might raise concerns about the potential for property seizure without due process or the impact on civilian drone use and privacy.
Proponents of the STAR Act argue that it provides vital protections for sensitive government and private space assets, ensuring the safety of personnel and preventing unauthorized surveillance or interference with critical operations. They highlight the growing availability of drone technology and the potential security risks it poses to facilities vital for national security and scientific advancement. While the bill includes provisions for reporting and policy development with other agencies, some might express concerns about the broad authority granted, the procedures for determining a 'threat,' and the potential for unintended consequences for recreational or commercial drone operators flying near these large properties, even accidentally.