119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 9229
The Seaport Security Act of 2026 creates federal restrictions on drone operations near U.S. seaports to protect against potential terrorist attacks and criminal activity. The law prohibits unauthorized unmanned aircraft from operating in airspace up to 1,000 feet above seaports and their adjacent structures, affecting major ports that handle at least one million tons of cargo annually or regularly accommodate cruise ship passengers. Exceptions are provided for federal agencies, state and local law enforcement with proper notification, seaport operations, and emergency situations. The bill imposes civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation and allows seaports to detect and disable unauthorized drones, while criminal penalties range from up to two years imprisonment for violations to ten years if the drone operation is connected to surveillance, terrorism, or other serious crimes. The Federal Aviation Administration must issue implementing regulations within 180 days of the law's enactment.