National Security: Banning Video of Military Secrets
Also known as: Drone Espionage Act
Legislative Progress
✓ Filed
Review
Senate
House
President
Key Points
Congress is updating national security laws to make it illegal to take or share videos of protected military secrets. Current laws already ban taking photos or making sketches of these items, but this change adds "video" to the list of forbidden actions.
This change is designed to close a loophole in old laws that were written before high-quality video cameras and drones were common. It ensures that filming a secret military site is treated as a serious crime, just like taking a still photograph.
The policy mainly affects people who operate drones or cameras near restricted areas. It aims to prevent foreign countries or individuals from using modern technology to gather intelligence on U.S. defense operations.
If passed, anyone caught filming classified defense information could face federal criminal penalties. This serves as a warning to drone hobbyists and others to be careful about what they record when they are near military property.
Milestones
4 milestones6 actions
Feb 9, 2026Senate
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 316.
Feb 9, 2026Senate
Committee on the Judiciary. Reported by Senator Grassley without amendment. Without written report.
Feb 5, 2026Senate
Committee on the Judiciary. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.
Jun 10, 2025Senate
Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Border Management, Federal Workforce, and Regulatory Affairs. Hearings held.
May 20, 2025Senate
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
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