Drone Tariffs Threaten Public Safety, Critics Warn

The Trump administration imposed a 100% tariff on drones with thermal imaging or over 55 pounds, plus 25% on smaller drones and varying levies on allies, claiming the move would bolster national security; critics say it will raise drone costs and undermine public safety by limiting affordable, capable drones for law enforcement, firefighting, and disaster response, with few viable domestic substitutes, while the FCC considers reclassifying drone tech as military-grade to further restrict civilian use.