Austin’s Drone Initiative Aims to Boost School Security

Austin’s Drone Initiative Aims to Boost School Security

Austin, Texas – Imagine a school where safety is not just a promise but a reality, enhanced by the latest technology! An Austin-based defense and security company, Mithril Defense, is stepping up to the plate, advocating for the use of drones to help keep our schools safer. And it seems they have found some interested ears, as at least one Texas lawmaker appears to be on board with the proposal.

In a recent post highlighted by the Texas Politics Project, Mithril Defense advertised the need for an individual to lead an advocacy campaign promoting “using drones to help stop school gun violence.” This exciting prospect is backed by the company’s collaboration with parts of the Texas legislature, focusing on necessary permitting and funding to get drone services into public schools.

What’s the Plan?

The company is eyeing a launch of a pilot program in several of Texas’ top 10 school districts as early as next year. They boast a unique team with experience ranging from a former Navy SEAL command master chief to a renowned drone pilot—and their aim is clear: “We find that our approach is bipartisan and believe it will help save lives,” said their posting.

Part of their strategy indicates that they are working alongside a notable Texas lobbyist with connections in the administration of Governor Greg Abbott to promote this initiative. The proposal in question ties into House Bill 462, introduced by State Representative Ryan Guillen. This bill suggests innovative measures including the substitution of armed human guards with drones that can disperse pepper spray or other irritants when needed.

How Will It Work?

According to the proposed legislation, schools could employ “at least one remote-human-operated aerial device” for every 200 students. This drone would have to be capable of delivering “less-lethal interdiction capabilities” to ensure safety while minimizing harm. Can you imagine drones patrolling playgrounds or standing watch during outdoor activities?

While the idea might sound futuristic, many challenges lay ahead. Texas lawmakers only meet for five months every two years, and with a host of bills to consider, the fate of House Bill 462 is uncertain at this moment. Guillen has yet to respond to inquiries about the bill, leaving many questions unanswered about how this will play out in the legislative arena.

Safety Concerns Loom Large

The quest for enhanced safety in Texas schools has reached a fever pitch, especially after the heart-wrenching mass shooting in Uvalde in 2022. In response, the legislation passed in 2023 called for armed law enforcement to be present in every school. However, the rollout faced hurdles as districts struggled with securing adequate funding and finding qualified personnel.

Currently, the state provides a mere $15,000 per campus and $10 per student to help fund security measures. Guillen’s proposed legislation looks to amend this with increased funding of around $100 per student and provide at least $100,000 annually to schools for mental health services. This suggests that perhaps a blend of tech solutions and dedicated funds might inch Texas towards a safer education environment.

Looking Ahead

As excitement builds around the potential of drones as a safety solution, Mithril Defense remains discreet about its strategy, describing their current situation as “stealth mode.” Communication from CEO Justin Marston indicates further updates might be likely by the second quarter of 2025.

As the school year progresses, all eyes will be on Austin and the Texas legislature to see if this groundbreaking approach to school security takes flight. The promise of drones in schools may soon transition from a fascinating idea into a new reality aimed at protecting our children.