Coastal Drone Surveillance and Interdiction Assessment Act

# Coastal Drone Surveillance and Interdiction Assessment Act (HR 2775) **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the federal government to study and assess how drones could be used to monitor coastal areas and intercept illegal activities. Specifically, it directs relevant agencies to evaluate drone technology for detecting and stopping smuggling, drug trafficking, and other illegal border crossings in coastal regions. The bill focuses on gathering information about what's currently available, what works best, and how to implement such a system rather than immediately deploying one. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects federal agencies responsible for border security and law enforcement (such as Customs and Border Protection and the Coast Guard), as well as Puerto Rico, given that the sponsor represents Puerto Rico.

The legislation would require these agencies to produce a comprehensive assessment of drone surveillance capabilities, including cost estimates, effectiveness data, and recommendations for implementation along U.S. coasts. **Current Status** As of now, HR 2775 is in committee, meaning it has been referred to the appropriate congressional committee for review and discussion but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Pablo Hernández, a Democrat from Puerto Rico.