The Counter Drone State and Local Defender Act grants the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) new authorities to address threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) . It empowers the FAA Administrator to detect, identify, monitor, track, seize, disrupt, disable, damage, or destroy UAS that pose a credible threat to national airspace or for testing purposes. These actions are exempt from certain federal laws, but the bill mandates strict privacy protections, including adherence to the First and Fourth Amendments and the disposal of intercepted communications unless legally required for investigation. The bill establishes two pilot programs to enable State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies to conduct counter-UAS operations. A general pilot program will designate up to 4,000 agencies over three years, allowing them to use FAA-approved mitigation systems against credible drone threats to " covered facilities or assets ." A special, shorter pilot program is also created for up to 40 agencies in cities hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup , specifically for event security, operating from March to September 2026. Under both pilot programs, participating agencies must adhere to strict guidelines, including using only FAA-approved equipment, implementing written privacy policies, and ensuring personnel are properly trained. The FAA, in consultation with the FCC and NTIA, is responsible for approving C-UAS systems and establishing training criteria. Agencies can apply for funding from existing grant programs to support these operations, and the FAA must report to Congress on program usage and any privacy complaints. Following the termination of the general pilot program, the bill provides for the permanent authorization of C-UAS activities for State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies. To gain permanent authority, agencies must properly register with the FAA, submitting detailed plans for their C-UAS operations, including descriptions of covered facilities, training programs, and reporting protocols. This permanent authorization allows registered agencies to continue mitigating credible drone threats to approved high-risk facilities or assets.