Appendix B — Legislative Movements

Federal (enacted)

• SAFER SKIES Act (2025): Expands the 2018 federal counter-UAS framework by allowing certified local officials to conduct approved counter-drone operations, not just DOJ and DHS. It creates a federal certification and training system, potentially through FBI-approved courses, and fund the buildout with $250 million per year for at least two years.

Federal (proposed)

• UAP Disclosure Act (UAPDA): Would establish formal declassification processes, an independent review board with eminent-domain authority over recovered materials, and mandatory reporting requirements for federal agencies and contractors.

• Safe Airspace for Americans Act: Addresses operational response authorities for anomalous airspace incursions.

• HR 8197 (introduced April 2026 by Representative Tim Burchett, R-TN): Would terminate the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, redistribute its investigative functions across existing Pentagon departments, and prohibit creation of any future centralized UAP office.

State (enacted)

• New Jersey Assembly Bill A5712 (signed January 12, 2026, by Governor Phil Murphy as P.L. 2025, c.269): Establishes a Center for the Study of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena in partnership with a public institution of higher education, funded with $2.5 million in research grants. Total appropriation approximately $3.5 million including a related Air Traffic Controller Loan Redemption Program.

State (proposed)

• Vermont House Bill H.654 (introduced 2026 session by Representative Troy Headrick): “An act relating to Vermont Airspace Safety and Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena Task Force.” Would create a task force to evaluate UAP reports, assess airspace and public safety risks, and coordinate scientific investigation and reporting.

• Connecticut House Bill HB 5422 (introduced 2026 session by Representative Aundre Bumgardner) “An act concerning a study of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena.” Would undertake a study in conjunction with local law enforcement and state agencies of UAP by a scientific body in the state in order to assess the feasibility and benefits of establishing a state UAP center.