Senate considers recreational drone empowerment act

The U.S. Senate has received the Recreational Drone Empowerment Act, a bill that would expand flying areas for hobbyist drones in certain airspace classes. Originally introduced in the House as H.R. 6460 by Reps. Tracey Mann and Sharice Davids on December 4, 2025, it passed the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and reached the Senate, where it was read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.[5][1][3] The measure aims to fix a 2018 law glitch restricting recreational drones in Class E airspace above Class G or near airports.[9]

The bill allows fixed-site recreational drone operations in Class E airspace extensions without prior Federal Aviation Administration approval, building on current rules that permit flights up to 400 feet in Class G and some controlled zones.[5] It advanced through the House on March 16, 2026, landing on the Union Calendar amid growing drone use for photography, racing, and model aviation.[7][9] Proponents, including the Academy of Model Aeronautics, say it clarifies rules and boosts access while maintaining safety.[9]

For Milwaukee residents, this matters as drone popularity rises along Lake Michigan and at spots like Veterans Park or Milwaukee Mitchell Airport fringes, where Class E restrictions now limit hobby flights.[5] Easier rules could spur local clubs, youth STEM programs, and aerial videography without red tape, benefiting Wisconsin's growing drone community.

The Senate Commerce Committee will likely review it soon alongside related drone safety measures, with potential floor votes and FAA input ahead.[6][2]