Iowa House Bill HSB704

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/13/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the procurement and operation of drones, and providing penalties.

Impact

HSB704 aims to enhance the safety protocols surrounding drone usage, particularly in sensitive areas that could impact state or national security. By prohibiting the acquisition of drones from certain manufacturers, the bill seeks to mitigate potential security risks related to data breaches and unauthorized surveillance activities. Additionally, the legislation mandates that all data transferred between drones and government networks undergo stringent checks against malicious threats, ensuring that data integrity is maintained. This represents a shift in how government agencies engage with technology and underscores a focus on preserving privacy and security in operations involving unmanned aerial vehicles.

Summary

House Study Bill 704 (HSB704) proposes significant regulations concerning the procurement and operation of drones by government agencies in the state of Iowa. A principal objective of the bill is to bolster security measures by restricting government use of drones produced by manufacturers located in 'countries of concern,' which include nations like China, Russia, and Iran. The legislation establishes a tiered classification for drones based on their capabilities, with varying security requirements corresponding to each tier. For instance, tier one drones, which are basic in functionality, have minimal operational restrictions, while tier three drones, which can collect and transmit sensitive data, face the strictest controls, including a requirement to store all data within U.S. territory.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding HSB704 include concerns about local autonomy versus state oversight, as critics argue that the restrictions could limit the ability of local governments and agencies to utilize drones effectively in public safety, emergency response, and other essential services. There is apprehension regarding the potential delays in implementing necessary technologies or the removal of existing noncompliant drones, which could hinder operations. Additionally, some have raised concerns about the implications these restrictions may have on research initiatives that rely on drone technology, particularly those that might be forced to navigate complex compliance and notification requirements under the new regulations.