Bill > SB238

This bill modifies Oregon's laws regarding the use of unmanned aircraft systems (drones) by law enforcement agencies and officers, establishing specific circumstances under which drones can be legally operated. The bill expands the permissible uses of drones to include responding to service calls, public safety emergencies, search and rescue operations, training, executing warrants, and situations with probable cause, while also implementing important restrictions. Specifically, when not engaged in active police work, drone cameras must be stowed or used only for flight situational awareness. The bill prohibits operating drones over commercial property boundaries without the property owner's consent and conspicuous notice, and restricts drone use for traffic enforcement except when pursuing a fleeing suspect. The legislation also maintains existing protections against collecting or maintaining information in prohibited ways and preserves penalties for harassing or annoying property owners through drone operation. Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training to conduct a study on law enforcement issues and submit findings to legislative judiciary committees by September 15, 2026, and repeals several existing statutes related to unmanned aircraft systems.

Justice

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB238