Federal Agencies Establish Framework for State, Local Counter-Drone Operations

On 1 July 2026, DOJ and DHS released an Interim Final Rule implementing the SAFER SKIES Act, creating a federal framework authorizing state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement to conduct counter-drone operations through a two-tier certification structure. The FCC simultaneously released complementary orders on spectrum access and equipment authorisation for counter-UAS technologies, establishing comprehensive oversight mechanisms for training, certification, privacy, and operational safeguards.

This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Drones & UAV. Wire is Fusion42's founder-focused intelligence feed: each story is connected to the funds and startups it names — every one with a live profile on Raise or Scout — so founders can follow the capital and the momentum behind the headline rather than just the headline itself. Wire analysis is one of the live surfaces Arthur reasons over.