Dec. 18, 2024
HARRISBURG – In light of recent reports of drone sightings, Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne) is co-sponsoring a resolution that urges the federal government to provide state and local governments with the legal authority to take immediate action when unidentified drones threaten public safety and privacy.
“Many residents have contacted my office to express their concern about the mysterious drones spotted over eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York,” said Watro. “I share those same concerns, especially regarding the lack of information from the federal government about the origin of the drones and their purpose. So far, we are only being told the drones pose no threat to public safety or national security. However, that is not enough. It is very disappointing that we are not getting more detailed information to help ease public anxiety.”
To view or download a broadcast-quality video of Watro’s comments, visit here.
In response to the drone sightings, one of Watro’s House colleagues, Rep. Ann Flood (R-Northampton), has introduced a resolution, which he is co-sponsoring, that urges the federal government to provide state and local governments with the legal authority to take immediate action when unidentified drones threaten public safety and privacy.
“I encourage Gov. Josh Shapiro to address this issue quickly and speak with President Joe Biden about empowering the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania so we can take action,” Watro added.
Drones are regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and states have very limited authority to regulate their operations. Generally, the federal government has exclusive authority while the drone is within airspace, and states have limited authority to regulate where the takeoff and landing occurs.
Pennsylvania does have two laws that specifically address the use of drones. One prohibits a person from using a drone to conduct surveillance in a private place, using in a manner that could cause bodily injury, or to deliver contraband. The second law preempts any municipal ordinance regarding the ownership or operation of drones.
Watro advises residents who observe any unidentified drone activity or have information related to these sightings to report it to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting photos or details online at
tips.fbi.gov/home.
Representative Dane Watro
116th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Andy Briggs
717.260.6474
abriggs@pahousegop.com
RepWatro.com /
Facebook.com/RepWatro