Representatives Newman and Willis Urge President Trump to Consider Ohio for Drone Protection Funds

State Representatives Johnathan Newman (R-Troy) and Bernie Willis (R-Springfield) today announced that they submitted a letter of support urging President Trump to consider Ohio as one of the first states to receive federal funding outlined in Executive Order 14305 “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty.” 

“There has been a consistent alarm heard from law enforcement leaders that they do not have the equipment needed to address the risks presented by drones which will likely be the method of terrorist attacks in the future. We must get prepared to address those risks now,” said Representative Newman.

“Ohio is THE state with the people who can solve the problems posed by unmanned aircraft,” said Representative Willis. “In the HOME of aviation, protecting the airspace domain is CRITICAL to the development of the aerospace future. We are READY to act in support of President Trump’s executive order on the subject!”

The letter of support, signed by more than half of the Ohio House, highlights Ohio’s longstanding leadership in aerospace innovation, defense manufacturing, robust network of military installations and defense industry partners, as well as how Ohio is a powerhouse in agriculture and food production – making the Buckeye State a prime candidate for this federal grant. 

The Ohio House awaits further instruction from the federal government on this application. 

To learn more about this executive order, click here.