GOP Lawmakers Propose Bill to Boost US Drone Industry, Hike Tariffs on Chinese Drones

‘The United States should not be reliant on Communist China for drones that are critical to our nation’s first responder operations,’ Rep. Rob Wittman said.

A Phantom 4, developed by Chinese consumer drone maker DJI, flies during its demonstration flight in Tokyo, Japan, on March 3, 2016. Shizuo Kambayashi/AP Photo

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) has introduced legislation to target Chinese drones, support American drone manufacturers, and strengthen U.S. national security.

The legislation titled “Drones for First Responders (DFR) Act” will impose more tariffs on China-made drones and establish a grant program from tariff revenue to support first responders, critical infrastructure providers, farmers, and ranchers in buying secure domestic- and allied-made drones.