The Islamic State and other international terrorist groups are perfecting the use of drones to deliver explosives. Meanwhile, traffickers in the United States have already flown drugs over border fences and contraband over prison walls with drones. U.S. law could be falling behind the threat.

Federal officials testified Wednesday at a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing that outdated statutes constrict the government’s ability to research and counter reckless or malicious drone use.

“This threat is real,” said David Glawe, undersecretary of intelligence and analysis at the Department of Homeland Security. “We are witnessing a constant evolution in the danger posed by drones as the technology advances and becomes more available and affordable worldwide.”

In response, Chairman Ron Johnson said he hopes to attach legislation to this year’s defense authorization bill that would give law enforcement agencies authority to curb the use of drones in U.S. skies.

Under the proposed legislation, DHS and the Department of Justice would gain enforcement authorities against drone use deemed to threaten public safety or national security. Law enforcement agencies could track or surveil drones in public areas, or even intercept, seize or destroy them if necessary.