LANSING, Mich. — State Rep. Mike Harris today announced the introduction of House Bill 5323, bipartisan legislation that would allow the state to install drone-detection and drone-interference technology on state-owned buildings and critical infrastructure.

HB 5323 authorizes the Department of Technology, Management and Budget to deploy systems that can identify unmanned aircraft and prevent unauthorized drones from flying over sensitive state facilities. The bill is part of a larger bipartisan effort to modernize Michigan’s approach to emerging security threats.

Harris said Michigan must take proactive steps to safeguard taxpayers, state employees, first responders, and the public from the risks posed by unauthorized drone activity.

“Drones are becoming more sophisticated every year, and that creates real security challenges for the state,” Harris said. “Bad actors can use drones to surveil secure locations, disrupt operations, or threaten critical infrastructure. This legislation gives Michigan the tools to detect unauthorized drones before they cause harm and to block them from entering restricted airspace.”

Under the bill, DTMB may also work with the Michigan Department of Transportation to ensure that protected sites are included in statewide geofencing databases used by drone-manufacturers and operators. The legislation clarifies that all actions must comply with federal law.

Harris noted that the bill earned support from members of both parties and was co-sponsored by lawmakers with backgrounds in public safety, technology, and infrastructure security.

“This is a responsible, bipartisan step to strengthen our state’s security posture,” Harris said. “Michigan needs to stay ahead of emerging threats, and this bill helps ensure our facilities and infrastructure are protected.”

HB 5323 has been referred to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for consideration.