Leveraging Aerial Systems for Stewardship Operations (LASSO) Act

The Leveraging Aerial Systems for Stewardship Operations (LASSO) Act mandates the Secretary of the Interior to create a grant program aimed at utilizing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for the humane management of wild horses and burros. This program will allocate $100,000 annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to fund pilot projects. These grants will support organizations, including institutions of higher learning, that possess demonstrated expertise in drone technology and a proven commitment to equine welfare research. The pilot projects will specifically test the efficacy of UAS for successfully and humanely gathering and managing wild horses and burros applying humane fertility control and conducting related herd-health efforts . Recipients are required to submit reports on project results to Congress and the public within 180 days of study completion. Additionally, grant-receiving organizations must provide a report to the House Committee on Agriculture and the Department of Agriculture, evaluating the broader potential of UAS for ranching, animal care, and environmental stewardship.