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Bill

Bill

LC 1306

Revise laws related to the use of aerial drones

2025 Regular Session

LC 1306 - Revise Laws Related to the Use of Aerial Drones OverviewBill Number: LC 1306 Title: Revise laws related to the use of aerial drones Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 1306

LC 1306 - Revise Laws Related to the Use of Aerial Drones

Overview

Bill Number: LC 1306
Title: Revise laws related to the use of aerial drones
Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process
Introduced: November 12, 2024

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to update state laws and regulations governing the use of aerial drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The primary goals are to establish clearer guidelines for commercial and recreational drone operations, address privacy concerns, and ensure public safety. The legislation is a response to the rapid growth of drone technology and its increasing presence in both urban and rural areas.

Key Provisions

  • Requires all drone operators, whether commercial or recreational, to register their devices and obtain a permit from the state aviation authority
  • Prohibits the use of drones for surveillance or data collection without the consent of affected individuals or property owners
  • Establishes no-fly zones around critical infrastructure, military bases, and other sensitive locations
  • Mandates that drones be equipped with identification and geofencing technology to prevent unauthorized access to restricted airspace
  • Imposes stricter regulations on the commercial use of drones, including insurance requirements and operator certification
  • Allows law enforcement to confiscate drones being used in violation of the law

Affected Parties and Impacts

The bill would impact a wide range of stakeholders, including:

  • Recreational drone hobbyists, who would need to comply with new registration and permitting requirements
  • Commercial drone operators, such as those in the real estate, agriculture, and delivery industries, who would face additional regulations and costs
  • Property owners and individuals, who would have greater legal protections against unauthorized drone surveillance and data collection
  • Law enforcement agencies, which would be granted new powers to enforce drone-related laws and confiscate non-compliant devices

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill was introduced in the state legislature on November 12, 2024, but it ultimately died in the legislative process without being voted on or enacted into law. The failure of the bill to progress was likely due to a combination of factors, including opposition from drone industry groups, concerns about overregulation, and the complex and evolving nature of drone technology and its applications.

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

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