Capitol News

State Representative William Bruck has introduced a bipartisan legislative package aimed at enhancing the security of Michigan’s critical infrastructure and establishing new guidelines for drone use in the state.

The initiative, called “S.H.I.E.L.D. Michigan” (Securing Homeland & Infrastructure with Emerging Laws for Drones), proposes a set of bills that seek to balance technological innovation with public safety and accountability. The legislation includes measures to protect sensitive sites, law enforcement, corrections officers, and private property from unauthorized or potentially harmful drone activity.

“Drones are becoming more and more prevalent and they have incredible potential for innovation, commerce and public service,” said Bruck, who represents Erie Township. “Just like with any emerging technology, we have a responsibility as legislators to ensure there are proper guardrails in place to shield Michigan residents, sensitive infrastructure, law enforcement and corrections officers, and other things from reckless activity. That includes unauthorized surveillance or foreign threats. I’m pleased we can come together in a bipartisan way to stress that this needs to be a priority for our state and that our laws are simply not current with this technology.”

Key provisions of the proposed legislation include giving law enforcement greater authority to counter unauthorized drone access, increasing the use of geofencing technology around protected sites, banning state and local agencies from purchasing drones made by companies flagged under federal standards as being of concern, and restricting drone flights near essential facilities such as power plants, correctional institutions, and police buildings.

The bill package also calls for the creation of a statewide drone registry managed by the Michigan Department of Transportation. It would further safeguard private property rights by prohibiting drone operators from flying over private land without consent.

Bruck noted that while over 1 million drones are registered with the Federal Aviation Administration nationally—and thousands operate daily in Michigan—the state’s current regulations do not comprehensively address new risks posed by drones. Recent laws have targeted specific issues like interference with emergency responders but lack broader protections.

“The truth is, there is nothing protecting our state from nefarious drone activity,” Bruck said. “The public safety component is a big part of this. We are currently asking law enforcement personnel to fight with both hands tied behind their backs as they deal with this issue. We need to empower our officers by getting laws on the books and we need it now. This is the most comprehensive package of drone legislation anywhere in the country. It will be a true game changer.”

The S.H.I.E.L.D. Michigan bills are expected to be formally introduced soon.