Arizona lawmakers are moving forward with House Bill 2733, a proposed law that would protect law enforcement from liability for property damage when shooting down or disabling drones near the US-Mexico border. This bill aims to empower police in combating cartel activity, with bipartisan support emerging amid rising concerns about drone usage, including reports of drones allegedly transporting drugs for cartels. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes emphasizes the need for robust action, stating her desire for officers to disable these drones using “electronic devices or frankly blow them out of the sky with guns.”
Despite the forward momentum, critics, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), warn of potential legal repercussions, as shooting at aircraft remains illegal under federal law. The bill proposes immunity for law enforcement officers from lawsuits related to property damage within a 15-mile radius of the border, albeit with amendments introduced to limit its scope. Proponents argue this measure is crucial in enabling local authorities to address illicit activities effectively, while opponents express concern over the implications for legitimate drone use and public safety.
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