State Rep. William Bruck (R-Erie Township) last week testified before the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on a comprehensive 14-bill package he is spearheading, known as S.H.I.E.L.D. Michigan (Securing Homeland & Infrastructure with Emerging Laws for Drones).  

“This is a first step in where we want to go in the future for drone mobility and drone mitigation,” said Bruck. “The package centers around three major areas: critical infrastructure, public safety, and drone management and mobility.”

Drones are an emerging technology with incredible potential for innovation, commerce, and public service. But as access and capability increase, so do risks, such as unauthorized surveillance, negligent operation, and vulnerabilities involving sensitive sites.

Bruck emphasized the S.H.I.E.L.D. package is the result of more than a year of work with stakeholders, industry leaders, and public safety partners. The plan establishes clear guardrails around drone use in Michigan, including stronger protections for key facilities, improved tools and authority for public safety response, and stronger standards to prevent foreign threats.

“This plan is designed to create practical, enforceable safeguards that protect Michigan residents and critical infrastructure, while still allowing responsible innovation and growth in the emerging drone industry,” said Bruck.

The S.H.I.E.L.D. plan will continue moving through the legislative process in the coming weeks as lawmakers work to strengthen safety while supporting responsible innovation.