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S 3542

Prohibits the use of unmanned aerial vehicles to aid in hunting

2025 Regular Session Introduced by George Borrello

Prohibits using drones to aid in hunting, restricting UAVs from locating, tracking, or harvesting game and impacting hunters, drone operators, and wildlife management.

REFERRED TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
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Bill Summary · S 3542

Summary: S 3542 — Prohibits the use of unmanned aerial vehicles to aid in hunting

Overview

S 3542 is a bill introduced on January 28, 2025, that would ban the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) to aid in hunting. The bill is currently referred to the Environmental Conservation committee. The primary sponsor is George Borrello. A related bill from a prior session is S 8863.

Purpose and intent

  • The core aim appears to be to preserve fair-chase hunting practices by restricting the use of drones as an aid in locating, pursuing, or taking wildlife.
  • By limiting UAV-assisted hunting, the bill seeks to address wildlife management concerns and potential ecological or safety impacts associated with drone use in hunting contexts.

Key provisions (as implied by the title)

  • Prohibition on using unmanned aerial vehicles to aid in hunting. This likely includes any drone use that directly facilitates locating, tracking, pursuing, or harvesting game.
  • The text cited here does not include specific definitions, exemptions, penalties, or effective dates. Therefore, exact language on what constitutes “aid in hunting,” who is prohibited, and under what circumstances is not specified in the information provided.

What is known vs. unknown

  • Known: The bill would prohibit UAV use to assist in hunting; it is under Environmental Conservation consideration; sponsor is George Borrello.
  • Unknown (not in provided materials):
    • Precise definitions (e.g., what counts as “aid,” what entities are covered).
    • Exemptions (e.g., enforcement, research, search-and-rescue, non-hunting drone operations).
    • Penalties or enforcement mechanisms (fines, misdemeanor classifications, civil penalties, injunctive relief).
    • Effective date and any phased implementation.
    • Scope (statewide applicability, specific habitats or seasons).

Potential impact

  • Hunters and drone operators: Possible restriction on drone use during hunting activities, which could require changes to practices and equipment.
  • Wildlife management: Could support wildlife conservation goals and reduce potential stress or disruption to wildlife from drone activity.
  • Law enforcement and regulatory agencies: May necessitate guidelines for enforcement and education of the public.
  • Industry: Drone manufacturers and retailers could see demand shifts if drone-use restrictions become widespread in hunting contexts.

Procedural timeline

  • 2025-01-28: Referred to Environmental Conservation (listed twice in the provided actions).
  • No further actions or amendments are documented here.

Related bill

  • S 8863 (prior-session) — Indicates a comparable or related measure from a previous legislative session.

Next steps for readers

  • Monitor committee hearings and floor action on S 3542 for definitions, exemptions, penalties, and effective dates.
  • Review the full text when available to understand the precise scope and any carve-outs or procedural requirements.

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

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