New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2313

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Makes FY2025 supplemental appropriation of $10 million for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Grant Program.

Impact

The introduction of this bill signifies a proactive approach by the New Jersey government to bolster its capabilities in managing unmanned aircraft technology. By allocating funds specifically for UAS purposes, the bill aims to enhance law enforcement's readiness and response to incidents involving drones. This funding could contribute to better monitoring and regulation of UAS operations, thereby safeguarding crucial assets and ensuring that laws governing drone use are adhered to.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2313 seeks to make a supplemental appropriation of $10 million to fund an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Grant Program as part of the fiscal year 2025 budget. The bill is designed to support state and local officials in acquiring the necessary equipment or training to effectively address the growing concerns regarding sightings of unidentifiable drones. This measure responds to an alarming increase in UAS sightings that could pose a threat to critical infrastructure and public safety in New Jersey.

Conclusion

Overall, A2313 reflects a growing recognition of the challenges posed by unauthorized UAS operations and a commitment to enhance the state's response mechanisms. It will be important for stakeholders, including lawmakers, law enforcement, and community members, to engage in dialogue about the responsible use of these funds and the broader implications for privacy and local governance.

Contention

While the bill has clear intentions to improve public safety and security, there are potential points of contention regarding how these funds will be utilized and the implications for privacy and civil liberties. Citizens may express concern over increased surveillance capabilities that come with enhanced drone management. Furthermore, discussion may arise around whether local jurisdictions will have sufficient oversight regarding how these funds and the associated technology are employed.

Companion Bills

NJ A5162

Carry Over Makes FY2025 supplemental appropriation of $10 million for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Grant Program.

NJ S4029

Carry Over Makes FY2025 supplemental appropriation of $10 million for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Grant Program.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.