Montana Drone Pilot Challenges Senator Tester on CCP Drone Ban

A Montana-based drone pilot and business owner is pushing back against proposed legislation that would ban certain Chinese-made drones, according to an email exchange shared with DroneXL.

Senator Tester’s Proposed Ban Targets DJI Drones

Eric Larson, owner of Shashin Studio LLC in Billings, Montana, voiced strong opposition to the Countering CCP Drones Act (S. 4792) introduced by Senator Jon Tester. The bill would prohibit new DJI drone models from connecting to U.S. communications infrastructure one year after passage.

In his response to Larson, Senator Tester stated the legislation aims to “bolster America’s national security against the threat of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).” He cited Department of Defense claims that DJI drones pose potential national security risks.

Small Business Impact Concerns

Larson argues the ban would severely impact small businesses and individual operators who rely on DJI equipment. He’s spent years and significant resources on a documentary project about Montana’s geological history, which requires drone footage.

“I rely heavily on my DJI equipment to be able to get the kind of cinematic shots I need for my work,” Larson wrote. “Your bill will force me to discard the thousands of dollars I have invested in my drone[s].”

Calls for Evidence and Consultation

The drone pilot challenged Senator Tester to provide evidence supporting claims about security risks. He also criticized the lack of outreach to Montana drone operators who would be affected:

“The senator never reached out to me, nor am I aware of him reaching out to any other drone operators in Montana,” Larson noted. “They haven’t even made an attempt to discuss these issues with small business owners or individual citizens here who will be harmed by this bill.”

Broader Economic Concerns

Larson raised questions about the bill’s economic impact, potential legal challenges, and effects on industries relying on drone technology. He argued the legislation appears aimed at eliminating market competition rather than addressing genuine security issues.

“There’s a reason DJI products account for so much of the market share, and it’s because they make the best stuff. No American company has anything close to what DJI offers. Not in the hardware, or the software. Not one company, Larson explained.

Larson continued to point out that:

“This legislation is bought and paid for by lobbyists looking to run DJI out of town.”

DroneXL’s Take

This passionate response from a drone operator highlights the real-world impacts of sweeping technology bans. While national security is crucial, legislators must carefully weigh consequences for legitimate businesses and users. As we’ve previously reported, drone technology offers immense benefits across industries. Policymakers should seek balanced approaches that address security concerns without stifling innovation or harming small businesses that have invested in widely-used equipment.

Join the Fight Against the CCP Drone Ban

If you’re concerned about the potential impacts of the Countering CCP Drones Act, your voice matters. Consider joining the Drone Advocacy Alliance to help make the drone community’s concerns heard by policymakers.

Additionally, if you have a personal story about how this legislation could affect you or your business, we want to hear from you. Email your experiences to us, and we may feature your story in future coverage. Together, we can ensure that the drone industry’s perspective is part of this important national conversation.