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119-hr-8458119th Congress

STAR Act

Sponsored By: Representative Soto, Darren [D-FL-9]

Introduced

Summary

Gives NASA and space launch sites new legal tools to stop dangerous drones. This bill would let NASA administrators and managers of space launch property detect, track, warn, disrupt, seize, or even disable unmanned aircraft that threaten safety or security while building coordination and reporting rules with local law enforcement.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

NASA powers to stop dangerous drones

If enacted, the bill would let the NASA Administrator and authorized staff detect, track, and monitor drones near critical NASA sites without prior consent. It would let NASA warn operators, disrupt drone control links or communications, seize or take control of drones, and use reasonable force to disable or destroy them. Seized drones would be forfeited to the United States. The Administrator would have to consult local police each year, report to local law enforcement within 30 days after certain actions, and send annual reports (first due within one year) explaining each action and privacy protections. The bill would also make drone operators liable for damages caused by these actions and prevents NASA officials from claiming absolute or qualified immunity under this section.

Rocket launch companies' drone powers

If enacted, the bill would let licensed launch companies and their staff detect, track, and monitor drones over launch property without prior consent. Covered entities could warn operators, disrupt control or communications, seize or take control of drones, and use reasonable force to disable or destroy them. Seized drones would be forfeited to local law enforcement, and companies must post signs on covered property describing permissible actions and forfeiture. Covered entities must consult local police each year and report to local law enforcement and NASA within 30 days after certain actions. Drone operators would be liable for damages caused by these actions.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Soto, Darren [D-FL-9]

FL • D

Cosponsors

  • Rep. Dunn, Neal P. [R-FL-2]

    FL • R

    Sponsored 4/22/2026

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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