Iowa House Bill HF388

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/23
• Refer: 2/22/23

Caption

A bill for an act prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over certain property, and providing penalties.(See HF 572.)

Impact

The implications of HF388 are significant, particularly for residents who may be affected by intrusive aerial surveillance. By categorizing unauthorized RPA flights over private properties as criminal offenses, the bill serves to enhance the protection of individual privacy rights against technological encroachments. The bill establishes criminal penalties for those found guilty of committing intrusion or surveillance using RPAs, with penalties varying based on the recurrence of the offense. This shift in legal structure marks a prominent step towards adapting existing laws to modern technological advancements.

Summary

House File 388 is a legislative proposal aimed at regulating the use of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) over specific types of properties in Iowa, namely homesteads and secure farmstead areas. The bill explicitly prohibits the operation of RPAs over these areas, thereby addressing concerns tied to privacy violations and trespassing. It introduces new definitions and frameworks for what constitutes intrusion and surveillance when it comes to the use of these aerial devices, intending to safeguard personal space and agricultural properties from unauthorized monitoring.

Contention

Debate surrounding HF388 is likely to revolve around questions of privacy versus technological advancement, as well as the rights of property owners versus the operational freedoms of individuals using RPAs. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure to protect citizens from unsolicited surveillance and potential harassment, especially within rural and farming communities. On the contrary, opponents might raise concerns regarding the implications for law enforcement or legitimate uses of RPAs in these areas, emphasizing a need to balance privacy rights with the benefits of aerial technology, such as agricultural monitoring or real estate assessments.