Governor’s Budget Seeks Limitations on Drones

Tucked away in Part D of the Governor’s proposed budget are provisions that may limit our ability to use drones.  The legislation increases the penalties for operating drones in a “nefarious manner.”  Apart from use in criminal activity, the term “nefarious manner” is defined as the “unauthorized surveillance of a prohibited area.” Under the legislation, a “prohibited area” would include police stations, prisons, military installations, etc.  However, it would also include “a large public gathering such as a concert, festival or sporting event ...”  Drone operators would have to get the express prior approval to operate a drone over these areas.  Penalties can range from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony.

This legislation can have a negative impact on news coverage.  We are in the process of obtaining an exemption for stations with operators that have been licensed by the FAA to operate a drone.

You can access the Governors drone proposal (Part X) here.