A new Florida bill could let property owners take matters into their own hands when it comes to low-flying drones, but concerns have arisen about conflicts with federal law.
Key Takeaways
- Florida legislators propose allowing property owners to use “reasonable force” against low-flying drones.
- The bill amends the state’s “Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act” and suggests penalties for unauthorized drone activities.
- Shooting down drones is federally prohibited, which has led to concerns about potential conflicts with federal law.
- The legislation aims to enhance security around critical infrastructures.
Legislation Overview
Florida lawmakers are currently deliberating a bill that would grant property owners the right to use “reasonable force” against drones flying under 500 feet over their land. Sponsored by state Sen. Keith L. Truenow, the bill reached the legislative calendar on April 16, with potential enforcement in October if passed. It seeks to revise the “Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act,” primarily heightening penalties for drones operating near infrastructure such as power plants and airports.
In recent years, drone sightings have surged, prompting calls for stricter regulations. Despite currently being a federal offense, the bill’s language has sparked debate over whether property owners might interpret “reasonable force” to mean shooting down drones. Sen. Jason Pizzo cautions that perceiving this action as permissible could lead to severe legal ramifications.
“Last committee stop, there was mention that ‘reasonable force’ might include shooting it down. And I think a number of us have had some drone issues,” Pizzo said. “I had one here a couple years ago, right on the balcony… But I don’t want anyone under the notion that they can go and just shoot things down from the air, which is actually punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.”
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Federal Law and Local Tensions
Federal airspace regulations enforced by the FAA categorically prohibit shooting down drones. Violators face civil penalties and potential criminal charges, including significant prison time. This has led to concerns that the bill could run into conflict with federal law. What constitutes “reasonable force” under the bill is not specified.
Florida’s legislation specifically targets drones suspected of carrying weapons or hoax devices. Meanwhile, support for the bill is partly rooted in the idea that current federal responses to domestic drone activities remain inadequate.
Potential Implications
Beyond legal contradictions, the legislation points to nuanced considerations in drone regulation, identifying areas such as airports, refineries, and gas pipelines for extended restrictions. Should the bill move through the Senate with approval, its implementation might pose significant challenges in aligning state versus federal regulatory frameworks on aviation safety and privacy rights.
Public and legislative scrutiny will continue, with the FAA noting on its website that regulatory adherence prevents possible airspace hazards. Florida’s proposition, nonetheless, symbolizes a critical juncture for all states as they navigate the burgeoning drone landscape.
Sources
- Florida bill would let homeowners use ‘reasonable force’ against drones
- Florida homeowners could use ‘reasonable force’ against spying drones under new bill
- Florida bill would let homeowners use ‘reasonable force’ against drones
- Florida Bill Would Let Florida Men Shoot Down Intrusive Drones
