President Donald Trump on Thursday signed a law that arms state and local police with the ability to take down drones at sporting events — a significant leap in stadium security after years of pressure from pro leagues.
The Safer Skies Act, folded into the National Defense Authorization Act approved by the Senate earlier this week, creates a nationwide framework to allow local agencies to receive federal training and use technology to disable unauthorized drones during major sporting events and large public gatherings.
The bipartisan measure ensures that the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice can continue to detect, track and neutralize drones near stadiums, airports and other sensitive sites.
“As drone technologies evolve and become more readily available, we must take every step necessary to protect our national security and ensure law enforcement can respond to threats that drones could threaten sporting events, gatherings of large crowds and critical infrastructure,” Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), one of the bill’s original sponsors, said in a statement.
According to Peters’ office, over 1 million drones are registered across the U.S., raising the risk of accidental interference and intentional misuse. They’ve already caused airport delays, hovered over critical power facilities and appeared above crowded stadiums — a growing worry as the country gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 L.A. Olympics.
Until now, only select events, such as the Super Bowl, World Series and World Cup final, have had on-site federal teams authorized to deal with drone threats. Thousands of NFL, MLB and college games did not.
Under current rules, Temporary Flight Restrictions typically ban drones below 3,000 feet within a 3-nautical-mile radius, starting one hour before an event and ending one hour after. Some games carry even tighter controls. That was the case for last week’s Army-Navy game in Baltimore, where federal authorities announced a specific TFR around M&T Bank Stadium for the matchup attended by Trump.
“Operating a drone in restricted airspace is dangerous and against the law,” Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, said in a statement. “An Unmanned Aircraft System operator could lose control of the drone, threatening the safety and lives of those below, or interfere with air operations around the stadium.”
The new law arrives as leagues push for stronger enforcement. During the 2024 season, NFL stadiums recorded 2,300 drone incursions in violation of the game-day TFRs. There was also an incident in 2023 that delayed a “Thursday Night Football” game between the Ravens and Bengals.
“We thank President Trump and our Congressional champions from both political parties who took decisive action to keep fans safe,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. “With a rising number of drones flying in restricted airspace, it is critical that state and local law enforcement have the tools to prevent harm. This important step will help protect fans at stadiums across the country.”