Senator Jon Bramnick (R-21) released the follow statement regarding the mysterious drones flying over New Jersey:
“The State of New Jersey should issue a limited state of emergency banning all drones until the public receives an explanation regarding these multiple sightings.”
By way of context via ABC News:
The mayors of 21 towns in New Jersey are demanding action in a letter sent to Gov. Phil Murphy over the mysterious drones that have been spotted flying overhead in recent weeks.
Since mid-November, large drones of uncertain origin have been repeatedly spotted in the sky at night over central and northern New Jersey.
The drones, which are larger than the type typically used by hobbyists, have raised concerns due to their proximity to both a military installation and President-elect Donald Trump’s Bedminster golf course.
an increase in drone sightings across the borough and state over the past few weeks. At the request of State and Federal Law Enforcement partners, residents are asked to report any information or footage of the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
While it is not illegal to fly drones in unrestricted airspace, authorities are working to monitor their activity and ensure public safety.
The FBI Newark, NJ State Police, and NJ Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness are asking for the public to report any information related to the recent sightings of possible drones flying in several areas along the Raritan River. Witnesses have spotted the cluster of what looks to be drones and a possible fixed wing aircraft. The FBI has reports from the public and law enforcement dating back several weeks.
Finally, please check out this story on the subject in NJ.com:
Assemblyman Jon Bramnick has proposed a limited state of emergency in response to the recent surge in drone sightings near airports in New Jersey. The proposal comes after multiple reports of drones flying dangerously close to commercial aircraft, posing a serious threat to the safety of passengers and crew.
Bramnick’s plan would allow law enforcement officials to temporarily restrict access to certain areas where drones have been spotted, as well as impose stricter penalties for individuals caught flying drones in prohibited airspace. The goal of the limited state of emergency is to prevent any potential accidents or incidents that could result from unauthorized drone activity.
In a statement, Bramnick emphasized the need for swift action to address the growing problem of drone interference at airports. “We cannot afford to wait until a tragedy occurs before taking action to protect the safety of our skies,” he said. “By declaring a limited state of emergency, we can give law enforcement the tools they need to effectively respond to this threat and ensure the continued safety of our air travel system.”
The proposal has received support from various aviation industry groups, who have expressed concern over the increasing frequency of drone sightings near airports. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also issued warnings to drone operators about the dangers of flying in restricted airspace, reminding them that it is illegal to interfere with commercial aircraft.
While some critics have raised concerns about potential civil liberties issues related to the proposed state of emergency, Bramnick maintains that the safety of air travelers must take precedence. He has called on his colleagues in the state legislature to act quickly to pass the necessary legislation to implement the limited state of emergency.
As the debate over drone regulation continues, it is clear that proactive measures are needed to address the risks posed by unauthorized drone activity near airports. Bramnick’s proposal represents a step in the right direction towards ensuring the safety and security of our skies.
