What does Preamble of Seaport Security Act of 2026 do?

This bill, formally titled 'To protect seaports from unmanned aircraft systems, and for other purposes,' aims to protect seaports from unmanned aircraft systems. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 9, 2026.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Seaport Security Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled the Seaport Security Act of 2026

What does FINDINGS. of Seaport Security Act of 2026 do?

This section outlines findings related to drone technology. Congress recognizes drone technology's potential to revolutionize various sectors, including commerce and military operations. The findings also highlight the potential dangers to public safety and national security posed by drone technology. Criminal use of drones, such as drug trafficking and illegal reconnaissance, is a growing concern. Seaports are identified as potential targets for drone attacks, posing a threat to national and economic security. Over 300 U.S. seaports handle significant cargo and passenger volumes annually. Current federal law is deemed insufficient to protect seaports from drone attacks.

What does RESTRICTION ON UNMANNED AIRCRAFT AT SEAPORTS. of Seaport Security Act of 2026 do?

This section amends Chapter 2 of Title 18, United States Code, to restrict the operation of unmanned aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems over seaports. It defines key terms including 'covered airspace,' 'multi-day cruise passengers,' and 'seaport,' specifying seaports as those handling at least one million tons of cargo annually or routinely processing multi-day cruise passengers. Generally, operating unmanned aircraft within covered airspace is prohibited unless authorized under specific circumstances, such as by federal agencies, state or local law enforcement with notification, or for seaport operational purposes with notice. The law prohibits operating unmanned aircraft in a manner that interferes with seaport security, operations, or navigational systems. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and seaports are authorized to detect, mitigate, seize, and disable unauthorized unmanned aircraft. Civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation may be imposed, and the unmanned aircraft may be seized or forfeited. Willful violations can result in fines and imprisonment, with harsher penalties for those intending to surveil, damage, disrupt, or facilitate criminal or terrorist activity. The FAA Administrator is required to issue regulations within 180 days of enactment to implement the section, including designating covered airspaces and notification procedures.

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Seaport Security Act of 2026

Last updated: 6/9/2026 · Introduced: 6/9/2026

Author: Jimmy Patronis (R-FL)

TL;DR (AI)

The bill restricts the operation of unmanned aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems over seaports, unless authorized under specific circumstances, such as by federal agencies or for seaport operational purposes with notice.
The Federal Aviation Administration and seaports are authorized to detect, mitigate, seize, and disable unauthorized unmanned aircraft, with civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation and potential fines and imprisonment for willful violations.
The bill requires the FAA Administrator to issue regulations within 180 days of enactment to implement the restrictions, including designating covered airspaces and notification procedures.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

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