Sandoval to seek $5M for drone test application

CARSON CITY (AP) — Gov. Brian Sandoval wants to spend $5 million to support Nevada’s application to be one of six locations designated as a center for drone development in the United States.

The Federal Aviation Administration in February solicited applications for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle development centers.

Sandoval on Friday announced he will propose a budget amendment setting aside $5 million to support Nevada’s application.

He says Nevada has been host to drone operations for decades and the state’s military air space and dry climate make it a perfect location to expand testing facilities.

The governor adds that if Nevada is selected, the center could bring thousands of jobs, generate $125 million in annual state and local tax revenue and have an overall economic impact of $2.5 billion.