Bill > S2454

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) in Massachusetts, defining key terms and setting strict operational restrictions. The legislation defines critical facilities as including infrastructure like distribution centers, courts, police stations, military installations, and hospitals, and clarifies that an unmanned aircraft is a drone operated without direct human intervention. The bill prohibits operating drones in airspace where federal aviation regulations forbid such operations, and empowers law enforcement to order individuals to cease drone use and provide their identity if they violate FAA rules. Critically, the bill makes it illegal to equip drones with weapons capable of causing serious bodily harm, with violations potentially resulting in fines up to $2,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year. The legislation also prevents drone operators from interfering with manned aircraft operations or airport activities, with potential penalties ranging from $1,500 to $10,000 and imprisonment up to two and a half years depending on the severity of the interference. Additionally, the bill prohibits using drones to disrupt emergency personnel operations or to surveil critical facilities with criminal intent, thereby protecting public safety and individual privacy.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2454