Counter-UAS Authority for State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Law Enforcement and Correctional Agencies

Detected July 6, 2026 · in Private Security Licensing

DOJ and DHS issue interim final rule authorizing state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement to use counter-UAS technologies. Private security firms may be indirectly affected if they operate drones or provide security in airspace where law enforcement now has expanded authority.

Aforeworn detected this change in the Private Security Licensing space on July 6, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated Medium urgency. Private security firms operating drones or providing security in areas where law enforcement may deploy counter-UAS measures. should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: The interim final rule is effective upon publication (July 6, 2026). Comments due by September 4, 2026. Immediate compliance recommended.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Private Security Licensing continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.

What changed

Law enforcement agencies now have explicit authority to detect, identify, monitor, and intercept unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in certain circumstances. This could affect private security drone operations, especially near critical infrastructure or public events.

Who it affects

Private security firms operating drones or providing security in areas where law enforcement may deploy counter-UAS measures.

What you must do

Review current drone operations and policies to ensure compliance with any new restrictions or coordination requirements with law enforcement.

Deadline

The interim final rule is effective upon publication (July 6, 2026). Comments due by September 4, 2026. Immediate compliance recommended.

Source: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/07/06/2026-13609/counter-uas-authority-for-state-local-tribal-and-territorial-law-enforcement-and-correctional

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