Bill > HB261

This bill establishes new legal provisions regarding the use of unmanned aircraft systems (drones) in Louisiana, creating two primary regulatory frameworks. First, it defines "mitigation measures" and "nefarious manner" for drone usage, and grants law enforcement the authority to take reasonable actions to intercept or disable drones that are suspected of being used for illegal or dangerous purposes, such as spying, smuggling, or threatening public safety. Second, the bill creates a specific criminal offense of "unlawful use of an unmanned aircraft system at a parade," which makes it illegal for unauthorized individuals to operate drones over permitted parade routes, including Mardi Gras celebrations and other public events. Violators can be fined between $2,000 and $5,000, potentially imprisoned for up to one year, and will have their drone confiscated and potentially destroyed. The law requires posting "Drone No Fly Zone" notices along parade routes and applies regardless of whether the operator claims to be unaware of the prohibition. The bill does include an exception for authorized film and television production drone usage. This legislation aims to enhance public safety by restricting drone operations in potentially sensitive public spaces and providing law enforcement with tools to address potential drone-related threats.

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https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=HB261&sbi=y