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HB 1148

TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS PRIVACY ACT; AND TO ADDRESS CERTAIN IMAGES CAPTURED BY UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Blake Johnson and 2 co-sponsors

Arkansas enacts privacy protections limiting drone imagery capture over private property while establishing regulatory standards for unmanned aircraft operations statewide.

Notification that HB1148 is now Act 597
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1148

Legislative bill overview

HB 1148, now Act 597, creates the Arkansas Privacy Act and establishes regulations governing the capture and use of images by unmanned aircraft systems (drones). The bill establishes privacy protections and likely defines permissible uses of drone imagery, particularly regarding surveillance of private property and individuals.

Why is this important

As drone technology becomes more accessible and prevalent, this legislation addresses growing concerns about aerial surveillance of private spaces and the collection of personal data without consent. The law provides Arkansas residents with legal recourse and establishes clear boundaries for drone operators, balancing technological innovation with privacy rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of privacy violations: Determining what constitutes illegal drone surveillance versus lawful observation from public airspace remains legally contentious and may require future clarification through court cases
  • Law enforcement exceptions: The bill likely includes carve-outs for police and government agencies using drones, which could create disparities in privacy protection depending on who operates the aircraft
  • Property rights versus airspace: Tension exists between homeowners' expectations of privacy in their yards and the question of how much airspace above private property can be restricted

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

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