NFL, MLB, NCAA, NASCAR Endorse Drone Control Bill for Sporting Events

The NFL, MLB, NCAA, and NASCAR have endorsed a bipartisan bill known as the Disabling Enemy Flight Entry and Neutralizing Suspect Equipment (DEFENSE) Act, aimed at empowering state and local law enforcement to disable unauthorized drones during major sporting events. Introduced by Senators Tom Cotton and Jacky Rosen, the bill seeks to enhance security at venues with temporary flight restrictions, which currently only federal authorities can enforce. With drone incursions at NFL events increasing from 67 in 2018 to 2,845 in the 2023 season, the bill addresses escalating concerns over potential threats from drones capable of carrying explosives or biological weapons. The legislation would require law enforcement to undergo counter-drone training and establish a list of approved drone mitigation technologies. Cotton emphasized that local authorities play a crucial role in ensuring public safety at these events, where federal agents are often insufficient. If passed, the bill would significantly bolster the protection of millions of fans attending sports events annually.