Bill > HB2177

This bill amends Virginia law regarding the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), which are drones operated without human intervention on board, by public bodies and law enforcement. The bill expands the circumstances under which law enforcement officers and employees can deploy UAS without a search warrant. Specifically, it allows warrantless UAS use in scenarios such as surveying an accident scene for crash reconstruction, aerial surveillance of a primary residence when executing a felony arrest warrant, locating a fleeing suspect during a pursuit, and investigating UAS near government property, critical infrastructure, or non-government prison facilities. The bill maintains existing exceptions for emergency situations like Amber, Senior, and Blue Alerts, and continues to prohibit the use of weaponized drones except at specific military facilities. Evidence obtained through UAS in violation of these regulations remains inadmissible in criminal or civil proceedings. The bill also clarifies that the restrictions do not apply to UAS used for non-law enforcement purposes like damage or traffic assessment, or for private, commercial, recreational, or research purposes. The legislation aims to provide clear guidelines for UAS use while balancing public safety and privacy concerns.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2177