In January 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) expanded 'no-fly zones' for both drones and unmarked federal vehicles in Minneapolis. The policy was so broad it could apply even to moving vehicles, leading freelance photojournalist Rob Levine to halt his drone operations.

Levine's decision came after the DHS labeled 37-year-old Renee Good an ‘anti-ICE rioter’ following her death during a protest against immigration raids. The agency then announced no-fly zones that could affect civilians and journalists alike, raising questions about privacy and safety.

The policy’s ambiguity meant any drone deemed a 'credible safety or security threat' faced the risk of being shot down or seized. Civil and criminal penalties were also threatened for operators who violated the new rules.

Levine's compliance forced the DHS to rethink its stance, recognizing that such expansive measures could inadvertently target innocent people and hinder essential work like photojournalism. The no-fly zones around unmarked federal vehicles were eventually rescinded.