Congressman Ted Yoho

Washington, D.C.- Congressman Ted Yoho (R-FL03) has written a letter to Chairman John Carter (R-TX) and Ranking Member David Price (D-NC) of the Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Homeland Security asking them to ensure that no funding for FY2015 be made available for warrantless drone surveillance of U.S. citizens on U.S. territory.

“We have seen an increase in drone use away from the borders, as well as an increase in lending drones to state and local law enforcement. As drones become more accessible throughout the country it is our duty as Members of Congress to ensure that our constitutional protections remain intact,” Yoho said.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) currently maintains control of the majority of the U.S. Government’s domestic drone fleet. DHS Secretary Johnson has acknowledged the importance of providing safeguards and protections for the privacy of all U.S. citizens. Additionally, Secretary Johnson has reiterated his commitment to spending appropriated funds only as mandated by Congress. This leaves Congress with the responsibility of directing DHS to use appropriated funds for drone surveillance only when it is legal and supported by a warrant, as delineated by the Fourth Amendment.

“I want to ensure that no funding for FY2015 be made available for warrantless drone surveillance of U.S. citizens on U.S. territory. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures and requires that warrants be based on probable cause. While the framers may not have envisioned an America with drones, the principles and protections laid out in the Constitution still endure today. It is my duty to uphold the Fourth Amendment in order to protect the privacy and liberty of all Americans,” Yoho concluded.