To require drones used by state and county personnel to be produced in the United States

HB 5552 prohibits West Virginia state and county agencies from purchasing or operating drones made by entities from China or Russia, or entities under their control, starting May 1, 2029. It defines "covered foreign entities" as those on U.S. sanctions lists or linked to China/Russia, and bans state funds from being used for such drones. The bill creates a grant program to help public safety agencies replace non-compliant drones with U.S.-made or certified alternatives (like those with Defense Innovation Unit or AUVSI certifications) by reimbursing based on the drone’s current value. This applies to all public entities using drones under 55 pounds, with grants available for compliant replacements after the 2029 deadline.