Bill > SB180

This bill prohibits Ohio public entities from purchasing, acquiring, or operating small unmanned aircraft systems (drones) manufactured or assembled by foreign adversaries. The bill defines a "small unmanned aircraft system" as a powered aerial vehicle without a human operator that can fly autonomously or be remotely piloted. It requires the Ohio Secretary of State to maintain and publish a registry of foreign adversaries every six months, using multiple federal lists to identify potential threats, including lists from the Departments of Commerce, State, and sources related to terrorism and national security. Starting May 1, 2027, public entities in Ohio will be completely prohibited from operating drones made by entities on this foreign adversary registry. The bill applies to all state and local government entities, including state colleges, universities, and other state-created bodies, and prevents the use of state funds for purchasing or supporting such drones. The goal appears to be protecting Ohio's agricultural production, critical infrastructure, security, and military defense by restricting technology from potentially hostile foreign sources.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb180