Federal Register #2026-13609

DHS/DOJ Rule on Counter-UAS Authority for SLTT Law Enforcement and Corrections

This interim final rule from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) establishes the regulatory framework for State, local, Tribal, and territorial (SLTT) law enforcement and correctional agencies to conduct counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) operations: - Authorizes SLTT agencies to perform C-UAS detection and mitigation under the SAFER SKIES Act - Implements a two-tiered training and certification structure: - Tier 1: Detection and warning operations - Tier 2: Mitigation operations - Specifies that only officers and employees of SLTT agencies may operate C-UAS mitigation systems - Contractors and vendors may design, manufacture, sell, install, maintain C-UAS systems, and provide technical support and training - Outlines requirements for: - Authorized C-UAS technologies - Spectrum coordination and airspace approval - Real-time air traffic control notification - Mitigation reporting and privacy protections - Compliance and oversight - Permits mutual aid arrangements between accredited and non-accredited SLTT agencies - No specific OEMs, vendors, or product quantities are identified, but the rule highlights opportunities for private sector manufacturers and service providers to support C-UAS operations

Description

This interim final rule codifies the framework for implementing the SAFER SKIES Act, authorizing State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement or correctional agencies to conduct counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) operations. The rule governs training and certification, authorized technologies, spectrum coordination, airspace approval, real-time air traffic control notification, mitigation reporting, privacy protections, and compliance requirements. It establishes a two-tiered structure for detection and warning operations and for mitigation operations. The rule also addresses authorized personnel, contractor roles, mutual aid, and operational policies for SLTT agencies exercising C-UAS authority.

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