Policy
Policy
AUVSI Statement on the Reintroduction of the Drones for First Responders Act
The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) applauds the reintroduction of the Drones for First Responders (DFR) Act and commends Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY) for her leadership in advancing this critical legislation.
America’s overreliance on drones manufactured in adversarial nations, most notably the People’s Republic of China (PRC), poses a growing threat to national security and supply chain resilience. This is a strategic vulnerability that impacts not only national security but also will negatively impact public safety, economic resilience, and technological leadership if we do not act.
AUVSI Testifies Before House Aviation Subcommittee on FAA Reauthorization Implementation with Emphasis on Drone & Advanced Air Mobility Regulations
Michael Robbins, President and CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), testified today before the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Aviation at a hearing titled “FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024: Stakeholder Perspectives One Year Later.”
AUVSI Launches Trusted UMS Operator Program to Standardize Uncrewed Maritime Systems Training and Certification
New initiative aims to eliminate barriers to growth by formalizing industry-led training benchmarks and best practices for uncrewed maritime operations
Arlington, VA—May 20, 2025—The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) proudly announces the launch of the Trusted UMS Operator Program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to establish standardized training and certification for operators of uncrewed maritime systems (UMS) in both commercial and defense missions. Unveiled today at XPONENTIAL 2025, the global event for autonomy and robotics, the Trusted UMS Operator Program marks a significant step toward professionalizing and scaling the maritime autonomy workforce.
AUVSI Launches "Trusted UGV" Cybersecurity and Supply Chain Certification at XPONENTIAL 2025
HOUSTON, TX – The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) today announced the official launch of Trusted UGV, the first-ever industry certification program focused on cybersecurity and supply chain integrity for uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs). The certification was developed through a collaborative industry effort led by AUVSI, with technical support from Neya Systems and its parent company ARA, along with input from the AUVSI Cyber Working Group and Ground Advocacy Committee, which included a coalition of UGV manufacturers, cybersecurity experts, and government stakeholders. The certification was unveiled today at XPONENTIAL 2025 in Houston, Texas, the world’s largest event dedicated to autonomy and robotics.
XPONENTIAL 2025 Kicks Off with a Focus on Workforce Development, Training and Certification in Uncrewed Systems
HOUSTON, TX – XPONENTIAL 2025, the world’s largest event dedicated to robotics, uncrewed, and autonomous systems, officially opened today in Houston with a full day of programming focused on education, policy, and workforce development. The exhibit hall will open Tuesday, showcasing the latest innovations across the autonomy ecosystem.
Statement on Bryan Bedford’s Nomination as FAA Administrator
AUVSI congratulates Bryan Bedford on his nomination as the next Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). With over 30 years of aviation leadership, including his tenure as CEO of Republic Airways since 1999, Mr. Bedford brings deep operational and regulatory expertise to the role. His experience in aviation safety, finance, management, and training equips him to address both the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today.
Working alongside Deputy FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau and DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, Mr. Bedford will help lead a strong, forward-thinking FAA team committed to modernizing regulations, enhancing safety, and reinforcing U.S. leadership in global aviation.
Progress on Domestic UAS Detection & Mitigation is Required for Public Trust, Enabling Drone Regulations
Uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS, or drones) have transformed industries, increased efficiency, and saved lives. The overwhelming majority of drone operations comply with regulations, with registered aircraft and a Remote ID sensor serving as a digital license plate. This is especially true for AUVSI members and the customers our members serve. However, as drones become more prevalent, so do the risks associated with their misuse – whether careless, clueless, criminal, or truly evil.
AUVSI State Advocacy February 2025
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AAM Prepared in AZ, CA, and TX
AUVSI and our AAM partners have worked with legislators to introduce our AAM model legislation in three states.
In Arizona SB1307, introduced by Senator Carroll, passed the Regulatory Affairs and Government Efficiency Committee on February 20 with a vote of 6-1. While airlines raised concerns regarding potential interpretations of our preemption clauses, we are actively engaging them within a broader stakeholder group to refine the language and mitigate any resistance moving forward.
AUVSI Statement for the Record - America Builds: Air Traffic Control System Infrastructure and Staffing
Testimony of Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI)
Submitted for the Record to U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Aviation Subcommittee
America Builds: Air Traffic Control System Infrastructure and Staffing
March 4, 2025
Chairman Nehls, Ranking Member Cohen, and Members of the Subcommittee: