
Proposed legislation would tax Chinese drone imports and use the money to help American first responders buy American-made alternatives.
Up to 90% of drones used by U.S. fire, police and emergency agencies are made in China, according to lawmakers and industry estimates. The concern is that this equipment could pose security risks if data collected by drones is stored or transmitted through systems tied to foreign governments. The bill aims to limit those risks while growing domestic drone manufacturing.
The Drones for First Responders Act was introduced by Reps. Rob Wittman, R-Va., Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., and Darin LaHood, R-Ill. It also has the support of China Select Committee Chairman Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Mich.
The legislation would impose new tariffs on drones made in China, then use that revenue to fund a federal grant program.
The grants would be available to first responders, critical infrastructure providers and farmers to help cover the cost of purchasing drones manufactured in the United States or allies.
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Author: Ray Hilbrich
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