New bill could let law enforcement shoot down suspicious drones at the border
Officials say cartels are using the drones to smuggle drugs into Arizona and avoiding border checkpoints.
ARIZONA, USA — Arizona lawmakers are pushing for a new bill that would let police shoot down suspicious drones at the Arizona-Mexico border.
The bill comes as law enforcement faces a rise in drones being used to smuggle drugs like fentanyl into the state — a high-tech approach that lets criminals dodge border checkpoints.
“Cartel actions directly threaten the livelihood of all Arizonans. In 2024, Arizona saw 1,479 opioid deaths,” said Arizona State Rep. David Marshall, who introduced the bill.
HB2733 only requires “reasonable suspicion” before police can take action against drones.
If the bill passes, police wouldn’t be liable for damages to unmanned aircraft within 30 miles of the state’s southern border.
Supporters of the bill include Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes and dozens of state representatives.
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