HB1653

House Bill 1653 prohibits Arkansas public entities from using state funds to purchase small unmanned aircraft systems (drones) manufactured or assembled by 'covered foreign entities.' A covered foreign entity is defined as any party or government based in or influenced by the People's Republic of China or the Russian Federation, or those appearing on specific U.S. federal screening or entity lists. Beyond prohibiting future purchases, the bill mandates that public entities must cease the operation of such drones by May 1, 2027. The legislation also restricts the use of state funds, including grants and contracts, for the operation of these drones after that date. A waiver process is established, allowing the Secretary of the Department of Transformation and Shared Services to authorize use in cases of exigent circumstances, criminal investigations, or for counter-unmanned aircraft system operations. The bill aims to restrict foreign influence or potential security risks associated with drones linked to specific foreign nations.