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A 615

Relates to prohibiting civilian drone use within 500 ft of a correctional facility

2025 Regular Session Introduced by MaryJane Shimsky

Bill Summary: A 615 - Prohibiting Drone Use Near Correctional Facilities OverviewThis bill, introduced on January 8, 2025, seeks to prohibit the use of civilian drones within 500 f

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Bill Summary · A 615

Bill Summary: A 615 - Prohibiting Drone Use Near Correctional Facilities

Overview

This bill, introduced on January 8, 2025, seeks to prohibit the use of civilian drones within 500 feet of any correctional facility in the state. The bill is intended to enhance security and privacy measures around prisons and jails by restricting the ability to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in close proximity to these facilities.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a 500-foot no-fly zone around all correctional facilities, including state prisons, county jails, and federal detention centers.
  • Prohibits the operation of any civilian drone, whether for recreational, commercial, or other purposes, within this 500-foot buffer zone around correctional facilities.
  • Provides exceptions for law enforcement, military, and other authorized government entities to utilize drones for legitimate public safety and security purposes.
  • Outlines penalties for violations, including fines and potential criminal charges depending on the nature and intent of the drone use.

Affected Parties

  • Correctional facility operators and staff, who would benefit from enhanced security and privacy measures.
  • Civilian drone operators, who would be prohibited from flying their UAVs near prisons and jails.
  • Surrounding communities near correctional facilities, who may see a reduction in drone activity overhead.

Timeline and Procedure

  • This bill is a continuation of prior legislative efforts to address drone use near correctional facilities, with related bills introduced in previous sessions (A 8625, A 6930, etc.).
  • The current version of the bill, designated as A 615A, is now in the printing stage after being introduced on January 8, 2025.
  • The bill will next proceed through the standard legislative review and voting process, with potential amendments and committee hearings before reaching a final vote in both the state Assembly and Senate.
  • If passed by the legislature and signed into law by the governor, the new restrictions on drone use near correctional facilities would take effect 90 days after the bill's enactment.

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

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