The Louisiana Legislature convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding drone regulations and their implications for state infrastructure. The meeting focused on the anticipated Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is expected to be released by the end of summer 2025.

Key discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts since 2016 to establish permanent flight restrictions for unmanned aircraft over critical infrastructure. These restrictions aim to enhance security for essential assets and will require continuous updates to remain effective. The proposed regulations will not only facilitate detection of unauthorized drone activity but also enable prosecution of violators.

Mr. Moran emphasized the importance of stakeholder input in shaping these regulations, urging committee members to review the forthcoming NOPR carefully. He noted that the FAA's executive order could significantly influence the final rule, and he encouraged collaboration among committee members to present a unified response.

The conversation also touched on the role of the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOSEP) in tracking these developments. It was suggested that GOSEP's critical infrastructure section could play a pivotal role in coordinating responses to the FAA's proposals.

Committee members expressed concerns about the potential risks of publicly listing critical infrastructure as part of the new regulations, fearing it could inadvertently create a target list for malicious actors. They agreed on the necessity of monitoring the NOPR closely and preparing collective comments to ensure that Louisiana's interests are adequately represented.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of addressing drone regulations and the need for a coordinated approach among state officials to influence the FAA's forthcoming decisions. The committee plans to remain vigilant and proactive as the NOPR is released, aiming to contribute effectively to the regulatory process.