NFL, MLB Back Bill to Ban Drones: Implications for the Tech Industry

The sports world is abuzz with news of a bipartisan bill introduced in Congress, the Disabling Enemy Flight Entry and Neutralizing Suspect Equipment (DEFENSE) Act, which aims to enhance security at major outdoor gatherings and sporting events by giving state and local law enforcement the authority to disable drones. Sponsored by Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), the bill has garnered support from prominent sports leagues, including the NFL, MLB, NASCAR, and the NCAA. As the debate around drone regulations intensifies, it is crucial to examine the potential implications of this bill for the technology industry.



Growing Threat of Drones at Sporting Events

The increasing prevalence of drones at sporting events has raised concerns about public safety and national security. In the 2023 NFL season alone, there were more than 2,800 drone incursions into restricted airspace around stadiums. These incidents have led to temporary suspensions of games and even criminal charges against drone operators. The bill seeks to address this growing threat by empowering local law enforcement to mitigate drone threats in real-time.

Impact on Drone Manufacturers and Service Providers

The bill, if enacted, could have significant economic implications for drone manufacturers and service providers. While it aims to enhance security at major sporting events, it may also limit the use of drones in certain contexts, which could impact the drone industry's growth and revenue.

Firstly, the bill would apply to sporting events that already have temporary flight restrictions, including stadiums and ballparks with more than 30,000 people and outdoor gatherings with more than 100,000 people. This would include all NFL, MLB, NCAA Division I football games, NASCAR, IndyCar, and Champ Series races. These events are significant in terms of attendance and economic impact, with the NFL alone attracting over 18 million fans to games each season (NFL, 2021). The restriction on drone use at these events could potentially limit the opportunities for drone manufacturers and service providers to showcase their products and services, which could impact their revenue.

Secondly, the bill would require eligible law enforcement officers to complete counter-drone training and mandate federal agencies to create a list of approved drone mitigation technology. This could create new opportunities for drone manufacturers and service providers to develop and sell counter-drone technology, as well as provide training services to law enforcement agencies. However, the demand for these services may be limited to specific contexts, such as major sporting events, and may not be sufficient to offset the potential losses in revenue from restricted drone use.

Counter-Drone Technology: A New Opportunity

The bill would significantly influence the development and adoption of counter-drone technologies, creating new opportunities for companies specializing in these solutions. The increased demand for counter-drone technologies, standardization and certification, investment in R&D, partnerships and collaborations, and expansion into new markets would all contribute to a favorable environment for the growth of counter-drone technology companies.



In conclusion, while the bill may create new opportunities for drone manufacturers and service providers in the counter-drone technology and training sectors, the restrictions on drone use at major sporting events could also limit their growth and revenue. The economic implications for the drone industry would depend on the balance between these new opportunities and the limitations on drone use at major sporting events. As the debate around drone regulations continues to evolve, it is essential for the technology industry to adapt and innovate to stay ahead of the curve.