New Jersey Senator Demands Emergency Hearing on Unexplained Drone Activity Over Critical Infrastructure

New Jersey State Senator Douglas J. Steinhardt has called for an immediate joint legislative hearing to address what he describes as alarming drone activity over military installations and critical infrastructure across the state. In a strongly worded letter to Governor Phil Murphy dated December 7, 2024, the senator criticized the administration’s dismissive response to ongoing drone sightings.

The situation highlights growing tensions between state officials and raises serious questions about drone security near sensitive locations. Senator Steinhardt, who represents New Jersey’s 23rd Legislative District, emphasized that reports of unauthorized drone operations continue to emerge from multiple communities, particularly in areas surrounding military facilities.

“With all due respect, dismissing the ongoing and credible reports of drone sightings as ‘nothing’ and ‘no threat’ without offering detailed explanations as to how and why those conclusions were reached is not only dismissive—it is irresponsible and dangerous,” Steinhardt wrote in his letter to Governor Murphy.

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The senator’s concerns touch on several critical issues facing drone operations near sensitive areas. As Commander-in-Chief of the New Jersey National Guard, Governor Murphy bears direct responsibility for safeguarding state assets. However, according to Steinhardt, the governor’s office has shown “no discernible action” to address these reports or provide public assurances.

The lack of transparency around these incidents mirrors similar challenges faced by other states dealing with unauthorized drone operations. Earlier this year, the FAA implemented stricter requirements for drone operations near critical infrastructure, though enforcement remains a significant challenge.

Of particular concern is the potential for these incidents to fuel public anxiety and misinformation. Steinhardt warned that the administration’s silence “is fostering an environment ripe for conspiracy theories, misinformation, and public panic—conditions that could escalate into dangerous confrontations.”

The senator has requested that Governor Murphy convene a Joint Legislative Briefing this week, bringing together all 120 members of the State Legislature with both state and federal authorities to provide comprehensive updates on the situation.

This development comes at a time when states nationwide are grappling with the challenges of monitoring and regulating drone activity near sensitive locations. The outcome of New Jersey’s response could set important precedents for how other states handle similar security concerns.

DroneXL will continue to monitor this developing situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.