Establishing the crime of and penalties for unlawful use of unmanned aircraft systems.
Impact
The enactment of SB49 will significantly impact state laws regarding the use of unmanned aircraft systems, enhancing legal protection for critical infrastructure and emergency operations. By classifying offenses based on the potential harm or disruption caused by illegal drone operation, this bill aims to safeguard public safety. It specifically criminalizes actions that could impede emergency response operations or compromise the safety of manned aircraft, thus aligning state law with growing concerns about the misuse of drone technology.
Summary
Senate Bill 49, titled 'Establishing the crime of and penalties for unlawful use of unmanned aircraft systems,' aims to create regulations concerning the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in New Hampshire. The bill establishes specific criminal penalties for various violations related to the use of UAS that could interfere with critical operations, such as those performed by law enforcement and emergency services. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, offenders could face misdemeanor or felony charges, creating a clear legal framework to deter unlawful drone activities.
Contention
While the bill seeks to enhance public safety, there may be concerns regarding civil liberties and the implications of increased regulation on drone use for recreational or business purposes. Stakeholders in the drone industry and civil liberties advocates might argue about the balance between safety and freedom of operation for lawful UAS users. The delineation of FAA-restricted airspace and the penalties related to unauthorized operations over correctional facilities or military installations could also lead to debates on enforcement practices and the definitions of lawful versus unlawful uses of drones.
Establishing penalties for driving over covered wooden bridges in vehicles that exceed posted limits and for vehicular damage to covered wooden bridges.