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SD 509

An Act relative to unmanned aerial systems

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Rush

Massachusetts bill establishing licensing, operational rules, and enforcement for commercial and recreational drone use to balance safety, privacy, and innovation.

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Bill Summary · SD 509

Legislative bill overview

SD 509 establishes a regulatory framework for unmanned aerial systems (drones) in Massachusetts, creating licensing requirements, operational restrictions, and enforcement mechanisms for their use. The bill addresses commercial and recreational drone operations while attempting to balance innovation with public safety and privacy concerns.

Why is this important

Drones are increasingly used for commercial purposes (delivery, surveying, inspection) and recreation, but lack clear state-level regulation in Massachusetts. This bill would provide legal certainty for operators and establish standards to address safety hazards, privacy violations, and airspace conflicts that have grown with drone adoption.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. Technology: Drone surveillance capabilities may enable privacy violations; the bill's privacy protections may be viewed as either insufficient by advocates or overreaching by industry
  • Regulatory Burden: Commercial operators may argue licensing and compliance costs create barriers to entry and economic development in the emerging drone industry
  • Enforcement Complexity: Determining jurisdiction between state/federal aviation authority (FAA) and Massachusetts, plus practical challenges in monitoring and penalizing violations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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