The Virginia Senate convened on January 13, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 757, aimed at addressing unauthorized drone activity over contracted defense facilities. The bill, which was adopted with a substitute, seeks to enhance security measures against potential threats posed by drones, particularly in light of recent incidents involving espionage and reconnaissance.

Senator Locke, the bill's sponsor, emphasized the need for Virginia to protect its defense infrastructure from evolving threats. He highlighted the alarming rise in drone incursions at military installations, noting that over 100 incidents have been reported nationwide, including sensitive breaches at facilities in Virginia. A notable example cited was a drone capturing images of sensitive shipbuilding processes at Newport News Shipbuilding by a Chinese national in February 2024.

Senate Bill 757 classifies unauthorized drone activity over these facilities as a Class 4 felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $100,000. The legislation also provides civil and criminal immunity to defense contractors who take reasonable actions to neutralize unauthorized drones, allowing them to act swiftly without fear of legal repercussions.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about how drone operators would identify contracted defense facilities. Senator Locke assured that such facilities are typically conspicuous and well-marked, although he acknowledged that some lesser-known facilities might not be as easily identifiable. The discussion also touched on the potential for the bill to serve as a model for future legislation aimed at protecting other critical infrastructure.

While some senators expressed concerns about the severity of the penalties, Senator Locke defended the Class 4 felony designation, arguing that the risks associated with drone incursions could have severe implications for national security. He asserted that the bill is a necessary step to deter malicious drone activity and safeguard vital defense operations.

The meeting concluded with a call for support of the legislation, which aims to align state laws with national security priorities and bolster Virginia's position as a leader in defense. The bill is now set to move forward in the legislative process, reflecting the state's commitment to addressing the growing challenges posed by unauthorized drone activity.