Kiggans introduces Drone Act

Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) has introduced the Local Innovation for Flight Technologies (LIFT) Act, aimed at modernizing federal drone regulations and supporting state and local efforts to integrate advanced aerial technologies. Co-sponsored by Rep. Bradley Finstad (MN-01), the legislation seeks to codify elements of a Trump-era executive order promoting American leadership in drone technology.

Kiggans said the bill addresses regulatory obstacles that currently limit the use of civilian drones, particularly restrictions on operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). “Technology is evolving rapidly—it’s time for our laws and regulations to keep up,” she said. “My LIFT Act aims to change that.”

The legislation requires the Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue a proposed rule for BVLOS drone operations and allow the use of artificial intelligence to assist in processing waivers under existing drone regulations. Supporters say this measure would help reduce bureaucratic delays for businesses and organizations seeking to utilize drone technology for logistics, agriculture, emergency response, and infrastructure inspection.

The LIFT Act also establishes an Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) pilot program, which would provide grant funding to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. These grants are intended to support drone applications such as law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and public infrastructure maintenance.

Rep. Finstad emphasized the bill’s potential to maintain safety while fostering innovation. “As drones become increasingly common in our daily lives, we must continue to innovate in a safe, secure manner,” he said. “This legislation preserves the balance between the safety of our airspace and the growth that’s reshaping aviation, transportation, and commerce.”

Supporters of the bill argue that existing regulations, designed primarily for manned aircraft, present barriers to the development of scalable Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations. The LIFT Act calls for a review of those rules and aims to streamline safe, compliant access for drone operators through updated performance and safety standards.

The bill has been introduced and is pending further action in Congress.