New Nebraska law limits drone purchases to approved models meeting security standards

Nebraska – The Nebraska Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division has released a new statewide list of approved drones, marking a major step toward tighter cybersecurity and safer technology use in government operations. The list was created to comply with the Secure Drone Purchasing Act, also known as LB660, a law aimed at protecting sensitive data and strengthening how public agencies buy and use unmanned aircraft systems.

Under the law, the Aeronautics Division is required to create and maintain an official list of drone platforms that meet both state and federal cybersecurity standards. This list is now published and available to the public at dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/drones.

New rules set clear limits on drone purchases

Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, Nebraska state agencies will be prohibited from purchasing drones that have not been reviewed by the Aeronautics Division and placed on the approved list. Political subdivisions, such as local governments and agencies, are expected to comply with the requirement to the extent practicable.

The initial release includes 50 approved drone models from 38 different manufacturers. Officials stressed that this list is not final. It will be updated on an ongoing basis as new drone platforms are evaluated, often at the request of state agencies or political subdivisions that need specific equipment for their work.

To qualify for approval, drones must meet strict cybersecurity standards. These include safeguards such as strong data encryption and secure network protections. The goal is to reduce the risk of data leaks, outside access, or other digital threats that could affect government systems, infrastructure, or public safety.

The Secure Drone Purchasing Act is part of a wider effort by state lawmakers to improve government purchasing rules and better protect the state, its businesses, and its residents from cybersecurity risks tied to modern technology.

An unmanned aircraft system, commonly called a drone, includes not only the aircraft itself but also all the equipment needed to operate it. The Nebraska Department of Transportation uses drones in many areas of its work, including improving safety, boosting efficiency, and supporting better decision-making. Drones allow for safer data collection, help reduce traffic disruptions, and limit staff exposure to dangerous or hard-to-reach conditions across the state’s transportation system.