Bill > AB426

This bill adds a new section to the California Civil Code to prohibit the operation of drones at emergency scenes in a way that impedes emergency personnel such as firefighters, peace officers, medical personnel, or military personnel while they are performing their duties. The bill allows local agencies, through the Attorney General, county counsel, or city attorney, to impose a civil penalty of up to $75,000 for violations of this prohibition. The legal action can also seek injunctive relief and reasonable attorney's fees and costs. An important exception is made for individuals who have been granted a Part 107 Operational Waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration, which is a specific type of federal permission for drone operation. The bill is designed to prevent drones from interfering with critical emergency response activities, such as firefighting, law enforcement, or medical rescue operations, by creating a clear legal mechanism to penalize those who obstruct emergency personnel with drone usage.

Budget and Finance, Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB426