H.R. 9232 grants private owners of critical infrastructure facilities the authority to use technologies designed to counter unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. This bill aims to enhance the security of vital infrastructure by allowing these private entities to protect themselves against potential threats posed by unauthorized drones.
Supporters of H.R. 9232 have praised the bill for empowering private owners of critical infrastructure to better safeguard their facilities from drone-related threats. They argue that the legislation is a necessary step in adapting to evolving security challenges and ensuring that private entities can effectively respond to potential risks.
Critics of H.R. 9232 have raised concerns about the implications of allowing private owners to use counter-drone technologies. They argue that this could lead to misuse or overreach, potentially infringing on privacy rights and public safety. There are fears that without strict regulations, the deployment of such technologies could result in unintended consequences, including harm to innocent bystanders.
The analysis of H.R. 9232, sponsored by Matt Van Epps, reveals no direct industry overlaps between the bill's subject matter and the sponsor's top donor industries. The bill focuses on granting authority for counter-unmanned aircraft system technologies, which does not appear to directly benefit any specific donor industries. However, there is notable lobbying activity in this policy area, with significant contributions from Monroe Energy, LLC ($10,000), Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. ($10,000), and Agri-Mark, Inc. ($10,000). Despite these contributions, the absence of direct industry connections suggests a low potential for conflicts of interest. Voters should be aware that while lobbying exists, it does not indicate a direct financial incentive tied to the bill's provisions.
Organizations that lobbied on issues related to this bill's policy area.
| Client | Lobbying Firm | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| AMERICAN SUBCONTRACTOR ASSOCIATION | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $30,000 |
| AMERICAN COUNCIL OF INDEPENDENT LABORATORIES | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $20,000 |
| FINISHING TRADES INSTITUTE OF THE MID ATLANTIC REGION | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $15,000 |
| STEAMFITTERS LOCAL 420 | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $12,000 |
| MONROE ENERGY, LLC | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $10,000 |
| UPSTATE NIAGARA COOPERATIVE, INC. | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $10,000 |
| AGRI-MARK, INC | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $10,000 |
| FRIENDS OF FATHER JUDGE HIGH SCHOOL, INC. | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | $6,000 |
| ARSENAL ASSOCIATES | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | undisclosed |
| LABOR & ENERGY ALLIANCE | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | undisclosed |
| BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS MIDDLE TENNESSEE | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | undisclosed |
| BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS INDEPENDENCE REGION | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | undisclosed |
| EKLUTNA, INC | EKLUTNA, INC. | undisclosed |
| CARPENTERS' COMPANY OF THE CITY AND COUNTY OF PHILADELPHIA | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | undisclosed |
| NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION - PENN-DEL-JERSEY CHAPTER | OSCAR POLICY GROUP, LLC | undisclosed |
Source: Senate Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) filings, 2026
Top industries funding Matt Van Epps, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)