Bill > SB1421

This bill modifies laws concerning the unlawful use of unmanned aircraft, commonly known as drones, in specific areas. It expands the definition of prohibited areas to include "critical infrastructure facilities," which are defined by referencing another section of law related to property damage. The bill makes it unlawful to operate a drone within four hundred feet of the ground and within the property line of these facilities, or to use a drone within their boundaries, especially if done to further a criminal act. It also clarifies exceptions for facility owners, authorized personnel like law enforcement or emergency services, government officials, public utilities performing inspections, and railroad employees. The bill also introduces new provisions empowering "authorized individuals," primarily certified peace officers, to "mitigate" threats posed by drones, which includes detecting, warning, disrupting control, seizing, or even disabling drones that pose a credible threat to safety or security. These mitigation powers are intended to be used to the greatest extent permissible under federal law. The bill also specifies penalties for unlawful drone use, ranging from an infraction to a felony if the drone is used to deliver dangerous items or controlled substances, and requires facilities to post warning signs. Finally, it clarifies that these new powers do not limit a law enforcement officer's existing authority to seize drones.