Arizona Law Enforcement Moves to Gain Authority to Shoot Down Drones at Southern Border

NEW LEGISLATION IN ARIZONA TARGETS DRUG SMUGGLING Drones. Lawmakers in the state are advocating for a bill that would authorize police to shoot down suspicious drones hovering near the Arizona-Mexico border. This move comes in response to increasing concerns about drug smuggling activities facilitated by drone technology, which allows traffickers to bypass traditional border checkpoints.

“Cartel actions directly threaten the livelihood of all Arizonans. In 2024, Arizona saw 1,479 opioid deaths,” stated Arizona State Representative David Marshall, the bill’s proponent. The proposed legislation, known as HB2733, would enable law enforcement to act on mere “reasonable suspicion” that a drone may be involved in illegal activities.

If enacted, the legislation would remove liability for any damages inflicted on unmanned aircraft within a 30-mile radius of the southern border. The bill has garnered support from various state officials, including Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, who emphasize the urgent need for robust measures to combat drug smuggling.