STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – State Representative David Marshall’s HB2733, which protects law enforcement officers from civil liability when taking down unmanned aircraft suspected of being used for criminal activities within 15 miles of the international border, successfully passed the House Public Safety & Law Enforcement Committee late Thursday.

“Arizona’s law enforcement officers are on the front lines of the fight against cartels and traffickers exploiting our border, and they need the ability to act decisively against criminal drone activity,” said Representative Marshall. “These drones aren’t toys—they’re tools of organized crime, used to scout for weak points in our security and to smuggle fentanyl and other deadly drugs into our communities. HB2733 makes sure that our officers can neutralize these threats without the fear of frivolous lawsuits.”

The rise in cartel drone activity has put additional pressure on Arizona’s law enforcement agencies, forcing officers to make quick decisions in real-time to prevent smuggling operations. HB2733 gives them the legal certainty they need to act without hesitation, protecting Arizona’s communities from the devastating consequences of cartel operations.

“This bill is a no-brainer. Law enforcement shouldn’t have to second-guess their ability to stop cartel drones from carrying drugs across the border,”Representative Marshall added. “Our Majority is standing firm on securing Arizona, backing law enforcement, and taking action to keep dangerous criminals out of our communities.”

HB2733 is a key component of the House Republican Majority’s plan to promote public safety, strengthen border security, and support law enforcement in the fight against the fentanyl epidemic. This legislative session, the Majority has prioritized securing the border, combating drug trafficking, and ensuring that officers have the resources and protections they need to do their jobs effectively.

HB2733 now moves to the full House for consideration.

David Marshall is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 7, which includes Pinal, Gila, Coconino, and Navajo Counties. He also serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Public Safety & Law Enforcement. Follow him on X at @DaveMarshallAZ.