Lawmakers demand answers, share drone action plan
Rep. Josh Gottheimer announced a push for drone traffic control and radar systems - even establishing a drone tip page.
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Several New Jersey lawmakers are demanding action as drone sightings continue to spread across the state.
On Monday, Rep. Mikie Sherrill called for the federal government to use the MQ-9 Reaper drones used by Customs and Border Protection to identify the source of unmanned aircraft systems in the skies.
Rep. Josh Gottheimer also announced a push for drone traffic control and radar systems - even establishing a drone tip page.
"What's happening is you getting all disinformation out. I think if we collect the information in an organized fashion, I can share that information with the people who are responsible for the federal government for handling these issues...It's all about more transparency and more information," said Gottheimer.
On Saturday, Rep. Chris Smith announced that he was drafting legislation, after being asked by local sheriffs, to allow state police to potentially take down drones.
"The state police would get the empowerment to really have what Homeland Security should have, but DOD does have the ability to track and bring down one of these drones," said Smith.
While federal agencies have said there’s no evidence of foreign involvement or a national security risk, President-elect Donald Trump believes the government has answers, noting that drones have been seen over his golf course in Bedminster.
"Our military knows, and our president knows and for some reason, they want to keep people in suspense. I can't imagine it's the enemy because if it was the enemy they'd blast it out, even if they were late. Something strange is going on.
Residents can call their local police at the non-emergency number if they see a drone.
