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Connecticut ‘Emergency’ Bill Would Ban Chinese, Russian Drones

State lawmakers approve legislation that includes a provision prohibiting towns, agencies, and contractors from purchasing or using foreign-made drones.

China drone ban DJI
Chinese manufacturer DJI is the world’s largest producer of drones, and U.S. law enforcement and public safety agencies have snapped them up for cheap. [Courtesy: DJI]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Connecticut has passed "emergency" legislation to ban drones manufactured in countries considered national security threats, specifically China and Russia, for state agencies, towns, and contractors.
  • Awaiting the Governor's signature, the bill establishes phased deadlines, prohibiting the purchase of these drones by October 2026 and their operation by October 2028 (earlier for emergency services).
  • The ban addresses national security, cybersecurity, and espionage concerns, particularly regarding Chinese drone companies like DJI and Autel, which are widely used but have unclear ties to foreign governments.
  • Connecticut joins several other U.S. states and federal entities implementing similar restrictions to mitigate potential risks from foreign-made drones, despite their often lower cost compared to alternatives.
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Drones manufactured in countries considered national security threats to the U.S. would be banned from Connecticut towns, state agencies, and contractors under “emergency” legislation backed by state lawmakers on Tuesday.

The bill, which awaits Governor Ned Lamont’s signature, proposes sweeping restrictions on drones built or assembled by “covered foreign entities”—in other words, China and Russia. Chinese drones in particular have proliferated among U.S. law enforcement and public safety agencies and account for an estimated three-quarters of the American consumer drone market, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.

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