Bill

Bill > HB58


GA HB58

GA HB58
Aviation; adoption of local ordinances, resolution, regulations, or policies that restrict the flight of unmanned aircraft systems over mass public gatherings; authorize


summary

Introduced
01/14/2025
In Committee
03/18/2025
Crossed Over
02/21/2025
Passed
04/01/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
04/01/2025

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT To amend Chapter 1 of Title 6 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to general provisions relative to aviation, so as to prohibit certain actions by operators of unmanned aircraft systems; to provide for a penalty; to provide for applicability; to provide for definitions; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

AI Summary

This bill amends Georgia state law to regulate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, by introducing new restrictions and definitions. Specifically, the bill defines a "ticketed entertainment event" as a gated event requiring a revocable license for attendance and establishes that it is unlawful to operate a drone within 400 feet of or above such an event, with violations punishable as a misdemeanor. However, the bill provides several exceptions to this prohibition, including when the drone operator has consent from event authorities, is operating under federal regulations, is an employee conducting official business, or is a property owner operating a drone over their own property in a manner consistent with federal regulations. The bill also maintains a statewide preemption of local drone regulations, meaning that counties and municipalities cannot create their own drone ordinances except in very limited circumstances, such as enforcing FAA restrictions or regulating drone launches from public property. The goal appears to be creating a consistent, state-level approach to drone operations, particularly near large public gatherings, while preserving some flexibility for specific use cases.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (7)

Last Action

Effective Date 2025-04-01 (on 04/01/2025)

bill text


bill summary

Loading...

bill summary

Loading...
Loading...