Bill > H0522

This bill establishes new rules for unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones, operating near state correctional facilities in Idaho. It defines "correctional facility" as any place holding state inmates, "mitigation measures" as actions like jamming to disable drones, "nefarious manner" as using a drone for illegal or harmful purposes such as smuggling or spying, and "restricted airspace" as the area from the ground up to 400 feet above a correctional facility. The bill allows the Department of Correction or law enforcement to use mitigation measures against drones suspected of operating nefariously within this restricted airspace, provided it doesn't violate federal law. Operators are responsible for knowing these airspace restrictions, and flying a drone within the restricted airspace of a correctional facility is now a misdemeanor offense, punishable by fines, jail time, or both, with the drone potentially being forfeited. The bill also mandates that correctional facilities post "Drone No Fly Zone" signs.

Justice

Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0522/