Bill > HB3662

This bill creates a new criminal offense in Texas related to operating unmanned aircraft (drones) over school instructional facilities. Under the legislation, it is illegal to knowingly fly a drone over a school property used primarily for instruction, with specific exceptions for government agencies, law enforcement, commercial operators who comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules, individuals with prior written consent from school administrators, and children under 14 years old. If a school principal, vice principal, or assigned school resource officer or peace officer witnesses a drone violation, they may temporarily seize the drone to provide as evidence to local law enforcement. The offense is classified as a Class C misdemeanor, which can be elevated to a Class B misdemeanor for repeat offenders. For defendants under 17 years old, a judge may dismiss the charge if the offense was not intentional, but must first issue a warning and refer the individual to an educational program about drone safety and aviation laws. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and defines an "instructional facility" as real property or improvements predominantly used for primary or secondary school instruction.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3662