Connecticut House Bill HB06450

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/17
• Refer: 1/23/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Stalking With An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.

Impact

If enacted, HB 06450 would directly amend sections 53a-181c to 53a-181e of the general statutes related to stalking laws. This change expands the definition of stalking to include activities facilitated by UAVs, thus legally recognizing the unique threats that drones present in terms of privacy violations. The bill underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing the safety and well-being of its citizens by regulating new technologies that could be misused for harassment or surveillance.

Summary

House Bill 06450 aims to address the growing concerns related to privacy and personal safety in the context of advancing technology, particularly unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The bill proposes an amendment to existing legislation to specifically outlaw the act of stalking via UAVs, thereby making it an offense to willfully and repeatedly follow or observe another person in a manner that induces fear for their physical safety. By targeting this modern form of stalking, the bill seeks to provide legal recourse for victims affected by such intrusive behaviors.

Contention

The introduction of HB 06450 may encounter opposition regarding the balance between technological advancement and personal privacy rights. Critics might argue that the bill could inadvertently stifle legitimate drone usage, such as for recreational purposes or professional photography. The potential for overreach in enforcement and the challenges of delineating between benign and malicious UAV usage could lead to discussions on whether existing laws are sufficient to address these concerns without further legislation.

Additional_points

Ultimately, HB 06450 represents an effort to adapt legal frameworks in response to emerging technologies, reflecting broader societal debates about privacy and the impact of drones. The bill will likely open up conversations within legislative circles and the public regarding the appropriate means to safeguard individual rights in the face of evolving technological capabilities.