We would like to update you on our recent government relations efforts in Washington, D.C. and across the U.S.
As you may know, AMA has been working to find a solution to frequent VIP Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) in Bedminster, New Jersey and Palm Beach, Florida that have grounded many AMA members and forced the cancelation of some events. This week, Director of Government Relations Chad Budreau met with representatives from the FAA, Legal Counsel, and others to discuss possible solutions and reiterate that AMA members should be allowed to continue flying safely and responsibly in these areas.
Chad also participated in the FAA’s Unmanned Aircraft Safety Team meeting in D.C. this week to continue their work on the safe integration of UAS into our nation’s airspace. Additionally, Chad and Government Relations Representative Tyler Dobbs participated in another Drone Advisory Committee meeting with other key stakeholders in the unmanned systems industry.
Our team has also been working diligently on the state and local level to fight legislation that could harm our hobby in New Mexico, Indiana, and Colorado.
- In Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Tyler spoke with local government representatives regarding UAS events and the use of local flying sites.
- In Breckenridge, Colorado, Tyler engaged with the Town Manager and City Attorney on a recently proposed ordinance to regulate the use of UAS in the town. The Breckenridge Town Council’s next meeting on this proposed ordinance is currently scheduled for September 12.
- Lastly, Chad and Tyler spoke at a West Lafayette, Indiana meeting on a proposed ordinance that would restrict hobbyists’ flights to below 50 feet and would charge UAS operators a registration fee.
If you live in or near any of these towns and would be interested in helping with these efforts, please let us know. As always, the most current information about our government relations efforts is available on our website www.modelaircraft.org/gov. Thank you for your continued support of AMA and enjoy the holiday weekend!
Sincerely,
AMA Government Relations