Rep. Marshall Proposes Bold Legislation to Shield Law Enforcement from Cartel Drone Threats

By Daniel Stefanski |

A new bill aimed at bolstering law enforcement capabilities in Arizona is making headway in the state legislature. Last week, the Arizona House of Representatives Public Safety & Law Enforcement Committee approved HB 2733, a proposal spearheaded by State Representative David Marshall. This legislation aims to provide protection for law enforcement officers from civil liability when they intervene against unmanned aircraft suspected of involvement in criminal activities near the international border.

In a statement regarding the bill’s advancement, Representative Marshall emphasized the urgency of the situation. “Arizona’s law enforcement officers are on the front lines of the fight against cartels and traffickers exploiting our border,” he said. “These drones aren’t toys – they’re tools of organized crime, used to scout for weak points in our security and to smuggle fentanyl and other deadly drugs into our communities. HB 2733 ensures that our officers can neutralize these threats without the fear of frivolous lawsuits.”

Marshall characterized the measure as essential, asserting that law enforcement should not hesitate to act against drones operated by criminal organizations. “Our Majority is firmly committed to securing Arizona, supporting law enforcement, and taking decisive action against dangerous criminals,” he added.

The Arizona House Republicans issued a press release noting that the increase in cartel drone activity has strained local law enforcement, compelling officers to make rapid decisions to thwart smuggling efforts. The bill aims to provide these officials with the legal clarity they need to act without reservation, thereby safeguarding Arizona communities from the harmful effects of drug trafficking.

The bill garnered bipartisan support, passing the committee with a vote of 10-0, although three members were absent and two opted to vote ‘Present.’ In the Arizona Legislature’s Request to Speak system, representatives from both the Arizona Attorney General’s Office and the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police expressed their support, while the American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona voiced opposition. A representative from the Arizona Trial Lawyers Association remained neutral.

HB 2733 is set to be reviewed by the full state House of Representatives in the near future.