Peoria Standard

Congressman Darin LaHood, along with other lawmakers, has reintroduced the Drones for First Responders Act. This legislation aims to support the U.S. drone industry by reducing reliance on foreign adversaries and enhancing national security.

Rep. LaHood emphasized the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to national security through their drones used by first responders. "The Chinese Communist Party is a clear and present threat to our national security and relying on their drones for our first responders is not only dangerous, but unacceptable," he stated. He expressed pride in supporting the act to ensure safe equipment and bolster American innovation.

Chairwoman Elise Stefanik highlighted that her legislation would establish a revenue-neutral grant program for purchasing secure drones made in the U.S. or allied countries. "I’m proud to reintroduce the Drones for First Responders Act, which will increase the competitiveness of U.S. drone manufacturers," she said.

Select Committee on China Chairman John Moolenaar also supported the act, citing surveillance risks posed by Chinese drones. "For too long, the CCP has exploited unfair trade practices... I’m proud to co-sponsor Rep. Stefanik’s Drones for First Responders Act," he remarked.

Rep. Rob Wittman underscored the importance of not relying on China for critical drone technology used in first responder operations. "We simply cannot cede control of the drone market to the Chinese Communist Party," he asserted.

Michael Robbins, CEO of AUVSI, described the act as a strategic step toward reducing dependence on adversarial suppliers while strengthening public safety and industrial capabilities.

Jon Toomey from CPA praised Rep. Stefanik's leadership and advocated for policies that support U.S.-based manufacturing industries against aggressive foreign competition.

The background information provided indicates that 90 percent of drones used by American first responders are currently built in China, posing a security risk. The bill proposes creating a grant program enabling purchases from U.S.-aligned manufacturers and establishing new import rules by 2030 to limit components sourced from China.