Seeks Public Comment Re: Securing Data & Comms Technology

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security has released an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that seeks public comment and information on issues related to securing data and the communications technology used in UAS made outside the U.S.

The action comes in response to Congressional actions taken that may restrict access to some foreign-made UAS products that specifically target those from Chine and Russia. If sufficient reason is discovered, BIS may issue regulations to “address undue or unacceptable risks to U.S. national security.”

Such regulations could potentially affect model aircraft operators, manufacturers, retailers, and hobbyists because most of the UAS flown by hobbyists are of the foreign-made variety. The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) is the largest model aviation association and as the primary representative of model hobbyists, says it is preparing its public comments as well as working with industry colleagues to ensure that hobbyists’ voice will be heard.

AMA says to its members that rulemaking and regulations involve many steps in the process that take time and that this is just the first step. The public comments received during the ANPRM period will be used to collect information, answer questions the BIS may have, and decide on a general approach they may take.

The issuance of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking – NPRM – is the first draft and also comes with a public comment period to provide feedback and possible revisions. The bureau will decide which revisions to make, if any, and then issue a Final Rule.

AMA reminds members and hobbyists that anyone can review these documents and submit comments. Refer to the website for more information on how to do that.

FMI:  amablog.modelaircraft.org/