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Bill > A4128


NJ A4128

NJ A4128
Prohibits operation of drone over school under certain circumstances.


summary

Introduced
04/04/2024
In Committee
04/04/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill prohibits the operation of an unmanned aircraft system, commonly referred to as a drone, over a school under certain circumstances. Specifically, under the provisions of this bill, a person commits a disorderly persons offense if the person knowingly operates a drone below 250 feet over the building or grounds of any school for the purpose of conducting surveillance or gathering information without the prior written authorization of the superintendent or chief school administrator. In addition, under the bill, a person commits a disorderly persons offense if the person knowingly operates a drone below 250 feet over the building or grounds of any school and the unmanned aircraft system remains above or hovers above the building or grounds of the school without the prior written authorization of the superintendent or chief school administrator. Further, a person commits a disorderly persons offense if the person uses the building or grounds of a school as a takeoff or landing area for a drone. A disorderly person offense is punishable by up to six months imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The bill defines, "school" as a public or nonpublic elementary or secondary school within this State offering education in grades kindergarten through 12, or any combination of grades, at which a child may legally fulfill compulsory school attendance requirements. Finally, the bill provides that the bill's provisions do not prohibit the authorized use, in compliance with applicable federal rules and regulations, of a drone by a public employee, or a public entity, or by a first responder in the performance of official duties.

AI Summary

This bill prohibits the operation of an unmanned aircraft system, commonly known as a drone, below 250 feet over the building or grounds of any school in New Jersey without prior written authorization from the school superintendent or chief administrator. The bill creates a disorderly persons offense, punishable by up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, for operating a drone over a school for surveillance or information gathering, hovering over a school, or using a school as a takeoff or landing area for a drone. The bill defines "school" as a public or private elementary or secondary school in New Jersey. The bill provides an exception for authorized use of drones by public employees, public entities, or first responders in the performance of official duties.

Committee Categories

Military Affairs and Security

Sponsors (11)

Last Action

Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Hearing (10:00:00 12/16/2024 Committee Room 15, 4th Floor, State House Annex, Trenton, NJ) (on 12/16/2024)

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