Bill > SB136

This bill creates new crimes related to the use of unmanned aircraft, commonly known as drones. It defines "unlawful use of an unmanned aircraft" as operating a drone to capture an image of a person, private property, or a critical infrastructure facility with the intent to conduct surveillance. This offense is a misdemeanor, but it becomes a fourth-degree felony if the captured image is used in a felony or if it contains confidential information. The bill also establishes the crime of "unlawful use of an unmanned aircraft near a critical infrastructure facility," which occurs if a drone's operation interferes with or makes contact with such a facility. This more serious offense is a fourth-degree felony. Critical infrastructure facilities are broadly defined to include essential services like communications, power, gas, oil, water, correctional facilities, and airports. The bill provides several exceptions, such as when consent is given, when the drone is operated by a government agency or its contractor, for legitimate commercial or academic purposes, or when authorized by a warrant.

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=136&year=26