A new bill introduced in Arizona seeks to empower local and state authorities to combat the increasing use of drones by drug cartels along the southern border. House Bill 2733, sponsored by Republican state Rep. David Marshall, would grant qualified immunity to law enforcement for any injuries resulting from shooting down unmanned drones within 30 miles of the border.
Cartels employ drones to monitor law enforcement activities and facilitate smuggling operations, including transporting drugs into the United States. Yavapai County Sheriff David Rhodes, president of the Arizona Sheriffs’ Association, highlighted the growing frequency of drone use by cartels, emphasizing the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking these aircraft.
The use of small aircraft is a rising concern for local, state, and federal authorities. Experts suggest cartels are seeking innovative methods to maintain their operations despite recent border security enhancements. The proposed legislation has garnered bipartisan support, a notable occurrence given the often-divided political landscape surrounding border and immigration policies in Arizona.
Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes has advocated for such a policy since last spring, emphasizing the need to equip law enforcement with the necessary tools to counteract cartel drone activities. She urged lawmakers to pass the bill and collaborate on reclaiming control of the border from drug cartels.
If the bill passes the Republican-controlled legislature, it will proceed to Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs for consideration. The governor's stance on the legislation remains unclear.
