Recreational Drone Empowerment Act

House Bill

H.R. 6460

119th Congress

Recreational Drone Empowerment Act

Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

Introduced:Dec 18, 2025

Primary Sponsor

Tracey Mann

R - KS

Cosponsors

1

Quick Stats

Policy Area

Transportation and Public Works

Summary

This bill expands where recreational drone pilots can fly without prior FAA authorization. Currently, hobbyist drone operators can freely fly in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace but need authorization near airports and in other controlled airspace. This bill adds Class E airspace extensions to the list of areas where recreational flyers can operate more freely.

Latest Action

Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.

AI Summary

Plain-English explanation of this bill

This bill expands where recreational drone pilots can fly without prior FAA authorization. Currently, hobbyist drone operators can freely fly in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace but need authorization near airports and in other controlled airspace. This bill adds Class E airspace extensions to the list of areas where recreational flyers can operate more freely.

Last updated: 12/26/2025

Key Points

Main provisions of the bill

Clarifies recreational drone exemptions in FAA regulations
Adds Class E airspace (above Class G, and surface extensions) to permitted flying areas
Reduces paperwork burden on hobbyist drone operators
Class E extensions are transition zones around airports with less traffic than core controlled areas
Maintains safety requirements - recreational operators still must follow visual line of sight rules

How This Impacts Americans

Potential effects on citizens and communities

Recreational drone enthusiasts would gain more flexibility to fly in areas currently requiring LAANC authorization. Rural and suburban areas with Class E airspace extensions become more accessible to hobbyists. Drone hobbyists frustrated by authorization requirements gain relief. Safety officials may have concerns about increasing drone activity near airport approach paths. The bill has advanced through committee, suggesting bipartisan support.

Policy Areas

Primary Policy Area

Transportation and Public Works

Scope & Jurisdiction

Jurisdiction Level

federal

Congressional Session

119th Congress

Citation Reference

6460, 119th Congress (2025). "Recreational Drone Empowerment Act". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/119-hr-6460