Bill > SB1197

This bill amends the Texas Penal Code to expand existing regulations regarding unmanned aircraft (drones) to include spaceports, in addition to airports and military installations. The bill defines a "spaceport" as a property or facility used for launching, landing, recovering, or testing spacecraft, which is licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration or operated by a spaceport development corporation. Under the new law, it would be a criminal offense to intentionally or knowingly operate an unmanned aircraft over a spaceport, allow a drone to make contact with a spaceport or anything on its premises, or operate a drone in a manner that interferes with or disturbs spaceport operations. The bill provides several defenses to prosecution, including actions by government entities, law enforcement, property owners, or those with prior authorization from the spaceport operator or the Federal Aviation Administration. The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, and existing law will continue to govern offenses committed before that date.

Government Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1197