LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan lawmakers are hoping to bridge the gap between outdated laws and new technology by “shielding” critical infrastructure from drones.

What is S.H.I.E.L.D.?

Rep. William Bruck (R-Erie) is one of the Michigan lawmakers leading the charge. He spoke on The Steve Gruber Show on Friday about the Securing Homeland & Infrastructure with Emerging Laws for Drones (S.H.I.E.L.D.), a newly created legislative package. It aims to protect Michigan’s infrastructure, particularly the state’s nuclear power facilities and law enforcement buildings, by “balancing innovation with accountability.”

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Bruck told Gruber the amount of work it takes to allow him access to one of those facilities is grueling. “I have to go through a number of processes and turnstiles to get my feet in there,” Bruck said. “But when you look overhead, there’s absolutely nothing to keep a drone from flying into that place.”

Drone registry.

What stands out about the legislative package is the establishment of a drone registry which would fall under the purview of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

In addition, MDOT would ensure drone operators do not trespass over private property without consent.

Law enforcement help.

The plans will provide law enforcement with more capability to protect against unauthorized drone access. Rep. Brian BeGole (R-Antrim Township) said officers need be prepared to respond to all sorts of potential dangers, including the ones in the air. “When we look at our state laws, there’s really nothing in there that proactively works to stop drones from potentially impacting sporting events, festivals, parades, or other critical infrastructure and facilities in our state,” BeGole said. He continued, “That’s a big public safety problem. These bills will give law enforcement the tools they need to keep people safe [and] protect private property rights.”

Lawmakers plan to introduce the bill package on Tuesday, Nov. 11.