Bill > HB3426

This bill modifies Oregon state law regarding the use of unmanned aircraft systems (drones), expanding and clarifying penalties for dangerous or interfering drone operations. The legislation introduces new criminal classifications for different levels of drone-related offenses, specifically focusing on actions that could endanger aircraft or disrupt critical emergency services. Under the new law, recklessly causing a drone to interfere with law enforcement, firefighting, search and rescue, or emergency response efforts becomes a Class B misdemeanor, while knowingly doing so escalates to a Class C felony. The bill maintains existing penalties for deliberately directing lasers at aircraft, causing drones to crash into aircraft, or preventing aircraft takeoff and landing, with severe penalties including Class A felony charges if such actions result in death or serious physical injury. Additionally, the law provides for mandatory forfeiture of drones used in repeat offenses, allowing courts to seize the unmanned aircraft system during sentencing for second or subsequent violations. This legislation aims to enhance public safety by creating more comprehensive legal deterrents against irresponsible drone usage that could potentially interfere with critical emergency and aviation operations.