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WI SB519

WI SB519
The operation of drones over school property and providing a penalty.


summary

Introduced
10/09/2025
In Committee
03/12/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

Potential new amendment
2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Current law prohibits the operation of a drone over a correctional institution without the express authorization of the secretary of corrections for a state facility or of the sheriff of the county for a county facility. A person who violates this prohibition is subject to a forfeiture of up to $5,000. This bill prohibits the operation of a drone over a property owned by a public, private, or tribal school or on which a public, private, or tribal school is located with the following exceptions: 1) with the express authorization of the school board, governing body, or governing board with jurisdiction over the school; and 2) for limited purposes at the direction of the chief of a public protective services agency with jurisdiction over the territory on which the school property is located. The penalty for a violation of this prohibition is the same as for a violation of the restriction of operating a drone over a correctional institution. LRB-4738/1 EVM:wlj&cdc 2025 - 2026 Legislature SENATE BILL 519

AI Summary

This bill modifies existing Wisconsin law to prohibit drone operation over school property, with specific exceptions. The bill defines key terms like "school" (which includes public, private, and tribal schools) and "public protective services agency" (such as law enforcement, tribal law enforcement, or emergency services). Under the proposed legislation, operating a drone over school property is generally forbidden, except in two main scenarios: first, when the school's board or governing body provides express authorization, and second, when a public protective services agency chief directs drone use for specific purposes like search and rescue operations, locating an escaped prisoner, executing an arrest warrant, or preventing imminent danger or destruction of evidence. Violations of this prohibition would result in a potential forfeiture of up to $5,000, consistent with existing penalties for drone operation over correctional institutions. Law enforcement would be required to seize any visual data or images captured during an unauthorized drone flight, with such evidence to be transferred to the appropriate authorities depending on the location of the violation. The bill aims to enhance privacy and security around school properties by restricting unauthorized drone operations.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (21)

Last Action

Available for scheduling (on 03/12/2026)

bill text


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