The problem we face:

We, the undersigned, strongly oppose Senate Bill 64 (SB 64), which would significantly restrict Georgia’s public safety agencies, law enforcement, firefighters, emergency responders, educators, and researchers from selecting and utilizing the most effective drone platforms for their missions. This legislation, based solely on the country of manufacture, poses a direct threat to public safety, emergency response capabilities, and critical research initiatives across the state.

If SB 64 becomes law, Georgia’s first responders, educators, and public agencies will be forced to abandon cost-effective, reliable, and life-saving technology, placing unnecessary limitations on their ability to protect and serve their communities.

Why SB 64 is a Threat to Public Safety

Firefighters May No Longer Be Able To:

• Use thermal imaging drones to locate hotspots in fires and ensure hose lines are accurately targeting flames.

• Detect rising temperatures in nearby structures before they ignite.

• Locate brush fire hotspots to prevent spreading and reignition.

• Effectively combat wildfires, putting lives, infrastructure, and homes at risk.

Police Officers May No Longer Be Able To:

• Navigate Atlanta traffic quickly to respond to emergencies and reach a school in time to investigate a suspicious person.

• Identify active shooter locations inside buildings like schools, offices, or event venues.

• De-escalate threats quickly using real-time aerial video to confirm whether a subject is armed.

Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Teams May No Longer Be Able To:

• Monitor toxic spills and track the movement of hazardous vapors before they reach communities.

• Determine if a fire near a residential area contains dangerous chemicals.

• Provide real-time data for first responders and the public to develop effective evacuation plans.

 

Search and Rescue Teams May No Longer Be Able To:

• Locate missing children, elderly individuals, or stranded hikers using thermal imaging.

• Find safe paths through floodwaters, tornado wreckage, or other disaster zones to reach victims.

• Deliver life-saving supplies like first-aid kits, water, and communication devices to stranded individuals.

Educators and Researchers Will Be Limited In Their Work:

• Research teams using drones for environmental, geological, or agricultural studies will face restrictions.

• K-12 and university STEM programs will lose access to cutting-edge drone technology.

• Georgia students will lose career-building opportunities in the fast-growing drone industry.

SB 64 is a Costly, Ineffective, and Unnecessary Law

 It Will Waste Taxpayer Money

• State and local agencies have already invested in training and drone fleets—many of which would be grounded.

• Domestically made drones are significantly more expensive—some costing up to 14 times more than those that would be banned.

• Agencies will be forced to purchase multiple domestic drones to match the capabilities of a single banned drone.

 

It Will Leave First Responders Without Reliable Equipment

• Domestic drone manufacturers do not currently have the production capacity to meet demand.

• Supply chain issues will create longer wait times and higher costs for replacement drones and parts.

• Many domestic alternatives lack critical features, forcing agencies to use subpar technology in life-or-death situations.

It Will Delay or Halt New UAS Programs

• Agencies will be unable to start or expand drone programs until they can comply with the new regulations.

• Current programs may be suspended indefinitely, affecting emergency response and community safety.

Cybersecurity Concerns Can Be Mitigated Without a Ban

Many drones that would be banned already include:

• Offline operation modes that do not require an internet connection.

• Third-party flight software for enhanced security configurations.

• Cybersecurity audits and cryptographic validations conducted by federal agencies and private security firms.

Public safety agencies are already trained in cybersecurity best practices to ensure safe and secure drone operations.

Drones Are Actively Saving Lives in Georgia

 Real-World Examples of Drones in Action:

Brookhaven Police Department, 2024 – Used a drone to locate a suspect hiding in a business ceiling, preventing escape.

Read more

Coweta County Fire Department, 2024 – Firefighters use thermal drones to locate missing individuals and improve emergency response.

Read more

South Fulton Police Department, 2024 – Drones are boosting efficiency, allowing officers to respond faster and improve situational awareness.

Read more

These cases demonstrate why first responders need access to the best available technology—not arbitrary restrictions based on the country of manufacture.

Tell Your Legislators to Oppose SB 64

The known, proven ability of drones to save lives TODAY outweighs any speculative concerns about future harm.

We urge the Georgia State Senate, Senate Rules Committee, and Senate Transportation Committee to reject SB 64 and any similar legislation that would jeopardize public safety, hinder emergency response, and waste taxpayer money.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for:

Public safety agencies to retain the freedom to choose the best tools for their missions.

Responsible legislation that supports life-saving drone operations.

Aviation policies based on facts, not fear.

Make your voice heard—sign and share this petition!