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Unmanned Systems Caucus Hosts Privacy Forum

Washington, D.C. – 27 MAR 2013 – Congressmen Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-CA) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Chairmen of the Congressional Unmanned Systems Caucus, welcomed representatives from the Airborne Law Enforcement Association, National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center, Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, Congressional Research Service, and the American Civil Liberties Union for a forum discussion on domestic unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and related privacy implications. The panel focused on current and emerging public UAS technology, shortcomings of current law, and possible legislative solutions to address privacy concerns. The event was held on March 20th and was open to Members of Congress and their staff.

 
The unmanned systems industry stands poised to make a significant impact on the national economy in the coming years after integration of UAS into the National Airspace. A recent economic study conducted by the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International estimates the creation of 103,776 jobs and an $82 billion dollar economic impact in the 10 years following integration. These estimates do not take into account indirect effects such as lower costs and increased capability for operating agencies.
 
Since the FAA Modernization Act of 2012 was signed into law last year, UAS integration into the National Air Space has been in the national spotlight. Privacy has been at the forefront of this discussion and is an essential element to consider in parallel with the FAA’s integration progress. Congressman McKeon (R-CA) stated that “We as legislators and operators must develop the laws and guidelines to ensure acceptable and sensible use of this new technology. However, it must be done in a thorough and responsible manner. If we rush to pass hastily crafted legislation, we risk smothering a growing industry and its potential economic and technological benefits. A comprehensive approach is needed which addresses gaps in current law and considers the effect on industry and operators.”
 
“Unmanned aerial systems are a vital tool for public safety and emergency management in gathering real-time intelligence and information, as well as providing officer safety and situational awareness. Often when a new technology is introduced there can be some confusion about how it may be used and the practical impact it may have. I am confident that if we engage all parties we can safely integrate UAS' without compromising privacy,” said Congressman Cuellar (D-TX).
 

The Congressional Unmanned Systems Caucus was created to educate the members of Congress and the public on the strategic, tactical, and scientific value of unmanned systems. It is important to acknowledge their overwhelming value and recognize the urgent need to rapidly develop and deploy more of these systems in support of ongoing civil, military, and law enforcement operations. The members of the bipartisan caucus are committed to the growth and expansion of these systems. More information is available at http://unmannedsystemscaucus.mckeon.house.gov/

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Welcome from the Co-Chairs

About the
Co-Chairs

Co-Chairman McKeon image

Buck McKeon
Rep. McKeon is helping to educate members of Congress and the public on the strategic, tactical, and scientific value of UAVs... more>>

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Co-Chairman Cuellar image

Henry Cuellar
In 2010, the House Homeland Security Committee appointed him as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Border, Maritime and Global Counterterrorism. more>>

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