Florida Senate Bill 1422 proposes property owners to use 'reasonable force' to take down drones flying over their land, drawing criticism from experts and advocates.
While marketed as a privacy protection measure, the bill raises concerns of legal conflicts between state and federal authority, risking harm to legal and commercial drone pilots.
The bill allows property owners to stop drones conducting surveillance under specific conditions, amending Florida laws related to drones and critical infrastructure.
Critics point out existing privacy laws and see the bill as a shift towards potential physical confrontations instead of legal remedies, increasing risks and conflicts.
Experts caution against the vague term 'reasonable force' in the bill, citing legal consequences and safety hazards of attempting to take down drones.
Concerns also arise regarding the clash between state law and federal airspace regulations, where federal laws heavily regulate drones, making enforcement of the bill risky.
A patchwork of state laws like SB 1422 could create confusion and hinder national aviation safety, impacting drone operations and pilots crossing state lines.
The bill's implications on the drone industry include regulatory uncertainty, potential investment decline, and court battles over state-federal jurisdiction.
Experts emphasize the importance of clear communication, adherence to FAA rules, reporting violations, and using smart technology to regulate drone activities, ensuring privacy and safety.
Florida Senate Bill 1422 is still in the legislative process, sparking national discussions on drone regulations and airspace control, prompting considerations at federal levels.