Introduction
In the challenging economic landscape of Ohio, small businesses such as Priority 1 Drones stand at a crossroads, navigating the delicate balance between innovation and regulation. Recent developments have stirred some uncertainty among many enterprises, sparked by discussions at the United States House Committee on Energy and Commerce hearing held on February 15th, 2024.
At the heart of these discussions lies House Bill 2864, a proposal seeking to extend the reach of the 2020 Secure and Trusted Communications Act (STC Act). This bill, if enacted, would incorporate DJI, a prominent drone manufacturer, into the list of covered entities. The consequence? DJI products would be effectively barred from integrating with any communication systems in the United States—a measure purportedly aimed at bolstering national security.
The ramifications of such a move are diverse and warrant careful consideration:
Economic Impact: Drone fliers like you form the backbone of Ohio’s economy. The abrupt ban on DJI products could disrupt operations and lead to closures, resulting in job losses and economic downturns.
Technological Superiority: While promoting domestic innovation is commendable, severing ties with established industry leaders like DJI presents challenges. Local businesses and public safety agencies may find themselves without viable alternatives, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in American drone technology.
Affordability: DJI products’ accessibility has been a driving force behind their widespread adoption. American alternatives often come with higher price tags, potentially burdening small businesses and public safety agencies with increased costs.
Public Safety Concerns: Many state and local agencies rely on DJI drones for critical operations, including search and rescue missions and law enforcement activities. Disrupting these operations without adequate replacements in place not only jeopardizes public safety but also imposes significant financial and operational burdens.
In light of these concerns, a collective plea emerges: reconsider the proposed ban on DJI products and seek collaborative approaches that balance national security imperatives with the vitality of small businesses and public safety interests. At Priority 1 Drones, “while we are not currently worried about this proposed bill passing, we believe it is essential to educate our constituents on DJI Products and how they have helped the consumer drone industry grow.”
What Can You Do? Contact Your State Representatives!
By reaching out to your state representatives and expressing your support for a balanced and thoughtful approach to regulating drone technology, you can play a pivotal role in shaping the conversation. Share your concerns about the potential economic impact of banning DJI products and emphasize the importance of supporting local businesses and public safety agencies.
Here’s how you can get started:
- Identify Your State Representatives: Visit your state government’s website or use online tools like “Find Your Legislator” to locate the contact information for your state representatives. (We have listed links below)
- Draft a Message: Craft a concise but impactful message outlining your concerns about the proposed ban on DJI products and advocating for a collaborative approach to regulation.
- Reach Out: Whether through email, phone calls, or social media, reach out to your state representatives and share your message with them. Be sure to personalize your communication to make it more compelling.
- Encourage Others to Take Action: Spread the word among your friends, family, and colleagues about the importance of contacting state representatives. Together, your collective voices can make a significant impact.
Remember, policymakers rely on input from constituents like you to inform their decisions. By taking action today, you can help shape policies that support innovation, economic growth, and the well-being of communities.
