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Bill

HB 274

Department of Corrections; mitigation of unmanned aircraft systems authorized, exemptions on prohibition further provided for

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Simpson

Alabama law allows Department of Corrections to deploy anti-drone technology at prisons to prevent contraband smuggling via unmanned aircraft.

Enacted
#incarceration
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Bill Summary · HB 274

Legislative bill overview

HB 274 authorizes the Alabama Department of Corrections to use countermeasures against unmanned aircraft systems (drones) within correctional facilities and establishes exemptions to existing prohibitions on such mitigation technology. The bill allows DOC to deploy anti-drone capabilities to prevent contraband smuggling and security breaches at prison facilities.

Why is this important

Drones have become an increasingly documented problem at correctional facilities nationwide, used to deliver drugs, weapons, and other contraband. Authorizing DOC to actively neutralize these threats could improve facility security and inmate safety, but the bill raises questions about what specific technologies would be deployed and how their use would be regulated.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify which mitigation technologies are authorized (jamming, netting, directed energy weapons, etc.), leaving implementation details unclear
  • Civil liberties concerns: Anti-drone technology could theoretically interfere with legitimate civilian drone operations near correctional facilities, raising interference and privacy questions
  • Oversight and accountability: The exemptions granted to DOC may lack sufficient checks to prevent misuse or unauthorized expansion of these capabilities beyond stated security purposes

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

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