summary
Introduced
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
In Committee
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
02/25/2026
02/25/2026
Introduced Session
Potential new amendment
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
The bill creates the "Unmanned Aircraft Systems Rights and Authorities Act". The bill does the following: ! Authorizes an individual to operate an unmanned aircraft system (drone system) for recreational purposes in this state; ! Authorizes a person to operate a drone system for commercial purposes within this state if the business is lawful and the operation is in compliance with state and federal law; ! Prohibits the state or a political subdivision of the state (local government) from requiring the registration of an unmanned aircraft or a drone system beyond what may be required by state and federal law; ! Clarifies that the operation of a drone system in compliance with federal law does not, standing alone, give rise to legal liability; ! Establishes and limits the regulatory authority of the state; and ! Establishes and limits the regulatory authority of a local government. In connection with establishing and limiting the regulatory authority of the state, the bill authorizes the state to regulate the use of drone systems owned by or used by the state or launching from or landing on state property. Exceptions to the state's regulatory authority are made for emergencies, maintenance, technical malfunctions, and law enforcement. In connection with establishing and limiting the regulatory authority of local governments, the bill prohibits a local government from regulating ownership, operation, design, manufacture, testing, maintenance, licensing, registration, certification, or equipment requirements or qualifications, training, or certification of a pilot, operator, or observer. A local government may regulate the use of drone systems owned by or used by the local government or launching from or landing on local government property. A local government's resolution or ordinance that is general in nature, such as a nuisance regulation, applies to a drone system.
AI Summary
This bill, titled the "Unmanned Aircraft Systems Rights and Authorities Act," clarifies the regulations surrounding drones (unmanned aircraft systems) in the state. It authorizes individuals to operate drones for recreational purposes and allows for commercial drone operations if the business is lawful and complies with state and federal laws. Importantly, the bill prohibits state and local governments from requiring drone registration beyond what federal law mandates, and operating a drone in compliance with federal law will not, by itself, create legal liability. The state can regulate drone use on state property or by state entities, with exceptions for emergencies, maintenance, malfunctions, and law enforcement. Local governments, or "political subdivisions," are largely prohibited from regulating drone ownership, operation, design, or pilot qualifications, but they can regulate drone use on their own property and enforce general ordinances, like those against nuisances, that may incidentally apply to drones.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Senate Committee on Local Government & Housing Postpone Indefinitely (on 02/25/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...