Congressman Ruiz Releases a Statement on the Drones Flying Over California's 25th District

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) released the following statement regarding drones flying over California’s 25th District.

“I understand the concerns about the reports of drones flying over Coachella Valley. I have introduced the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act which focuses on the safety and well-being of the families and individuals I serve. This bill would provide the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) with the ability to issue restrictions for manned aircrafts over our large gatherings and events. This week’s situation is a clear example of why this bill is necessary,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25).

My team will continue to monitor this situation. I encourage you to report any additional suspicious drone activity to the FBI by calling 1-800-225-5324 or submitting tips and video footage at www.tips.fbi.gov.

Background

The Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act is supported by a wide variety of local authorities and organizations. In a press release from October 8, 2024, City of Indio, Mayor and Councilmember, Guadalupe Ramos Amith, Chief of Police Brian Tully for the Indio Police Department, and Anschutz Entertainment Group, Inc. shared strong support for this legislation.

"As Mayor of Indio in California's 25th Congressional District, home to major outdoor music festivals, I recognize the importance of Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) for attendee safety. In 2024, Congress authorized TFRs for drone operators over large venues, yet this does not extend to open-air concerts. Audience safety should not vary based on event type. Passing this legislation will protect concertgoers, workers, and residents, while bolstering the economic benefits these festivals bring to our region." – Guadalupe Ramos Amith, Mayor and Councilmember, City of Indio.

“AEG places the highest priority on the safety and enjoyment of our guests,” said Martha Saucedo, AEG's Chief External Affairs Officer.  “AEG was pleased that the recent FAA Reauthorization law included provisions to bolster FAA’s authority to restrict unmanned aircrafts over large outdoor events, including concerts and festivals.  The Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act would provide FAA with important added authority to issue similar restrictions for manned aircrafts over large outdoor concerts and festivals, and AEG urges Congress to act on this important bill.” - Anschutz Entertainment Group, Inc.

"On behalf of the Indio Police Department, I strongly support the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act. As leaders in law enforcement, our top priority is the safety and security of our communities. H.R. 5827, the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act, represents a critical step in ensuring that large events, such as outdoor concerts and music festivals, remain not only enjoyable but also safe for all attendees." - Chief of Police Brian Tully, Indio Police Department

Background on the Legislation

In 2024, Congress enacted legislation specifying that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may only issue temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) to protect individuals or property or to prevent unsafe congestion of aircraft, including drones, near aerial demonstrations or major sporting events. Currently, major concerts are not eligible to apply for TFRs under this law.

This new legislation mandates that the FAA must grant TFRs for outdoor concerts or festivals with a daily attendance of 30,000 or more.

For example, in 2024, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival drew 250,841 attendees over its various weekends. Specifically, the Stagecoach country music festival hosted 89,003 attendees, while Coachella welcomed 161,838 over its two weekends.