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Starting October 1, a new law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis will take effect, reinforcing restrictions on the use of drones in sensitive areas such as prisons, military installations, airports, dams, and other critical infrastructure.
According to the publication Florida Politics, the aim is to prevent risks to public safety and national threats.
The legislation is part of the HB 1121 project, presented by Republican representative Jennifer Canady from Lakeland County.
The regulation aims to curb dangerous and illegal activities, such as smuggling to prisons, espionage at strategic facilities, or even the potential use of drones carrying chemical payloads.
"These modifications strengthen the state's ability to prevent illegal activities involving unmanned aircraft," declared Canady during the debate in the House of Representatives Criminal Justice Committee.
The law expands the definition of critical infrastructure to include airports, military bases, dams, telecommunications facilities, and correctional centers, and prohibits the use of drones that interfere with their operation, except with explicit authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Modified drones designed to evade remote identification requirements, as well as those equipped with weapons, explosives, or destructive devices, will also be prohibited.
The use of drones for unauthorized surveillance or to disseminate images captured illegally will also be penalized with criminal penalties.
The law, however, allows law enforcement to use drones under certain conditions for crowd control or other security-related tasks.
During the legislative discussion, Republican representative Danny Alvarez, the committee chair, defended the measure by stating that it is necessary to act quickly in response to new technologies.
"Many times we are criticized for not reacting in time and allowing technology to surpass us," pointed out Alvarez.
An alternative version of the project, presented in the Senate by Republican Keith Truenow, proposed allowing private property owners to use reasonable force against drones surveilling their property. However, this clause was not included in the final version signed by the governor.
In April, state senator Keith L. Truenow (R) introduced bill SB 1422, which proposed to authorize homeowners in Florida to use "reasonable force" to prevent drones from flying over their properties at an altitude of less than 500 feet.
The initiative aimed to strengthen the privacy of residents in light of the increasing use of unmanned aerial systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About the New Drone Law in Florida
What areas are restricted for drone use according to the new law in Florida?
The new law in Florida restricts the use of drones over prisons, military facilities, airports, dams, and other critical infrastructure. This measure aims to prevent dangerous and illegal activities that could compromise public and national security.
Why was this drone law implemented in Florida?
The law was enacted to strengthen the state's ability to prevent illicit activities involving drones. This includes preventing the smuggling of contraband into prisons, spying on strategic facilities, and the potential use of drones carrying dangerous payloads.
What penalties will be imposed for the unauthorized use of drones?
The use of drones for unauthorized surveillance or for disseminating images captured illegally will be punishable by criminal penalties. Additionally, modified drones designed to evade remote identification or equipped with weapons are prohibited.
What exceptions exist for the use of drones in restricted areas?
Law enforcement agencies may use drones under certain conditions for crowd control or other security tasks. However, these activities must have the express authorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
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