Bill would treat defense videos like photos under espionage law
Officially: Drone Espionage Act
People could face existing espionage charges for some videos of protected defense information. The bill adds video to a current federal law instead of creating a new crime.
Where it stands
floor_pending
Your representatives are deciding where they stand. A few messages can tip the balance.
- Changes Section 793 of Title 18, the federal law on gathering and sharing national defense information.
- Adds the word "video" every place that section now says "photographic negative."
- Puts videos of defense information under the same criminal rules that already cover documents, photos, and similar materials.
↓ Why your message matters here
This bill is moving through Congress right now — your representative needs to hear from you.
The debate
What people are saying about this bill
- Updates the espionage law for modern technology by clearly covering video, not just old media like photographic negatives.
- Could make it easier to prosecute people who use drones or other devices to capture sensitive defense information on video.
- Gives courts, prosecutors, and defendants a clearer rule for how video fits into existing national defense information law.
- Broadens a powerful criminal law without adding clear limits or spelling out what kinds of video it covers.
- Could make journalists, researchers, hobby drone users, and others more unsure about recording near defense sites if they do not know what counts as protected information.
- Expands the risk of criminal charges with only a few words and without much detail about effects on free speech or civil liberties.
Where this bill is in the process
Legislative timeline
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
Senate Committee
Under Senate committee consideration
Senate Floor Vote
Voted on by Senate
Latest: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 316. (2/9/2026)
Passed Senate
Approved by Senate
House Review
Sent to House for consideration
Passed Both Chambers
Approved by both House and Senate
Signed into Law
Signed by the President
For more detail