New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S195

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Establishes penalties for use of unmanned aircraft in furtherance of commission of criminal offense; requires forfeiture of device upon conviction.

Impact

The enactment of S195 would amend Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes, introducing new legal frameworks surrounding drone usage in crime. Not only does it justify stricter penalties for offenders using drones, but it also mandates the forfeiture of drones and related devices upon conviction. This aspect indicates a significant shift away from previous regulations, aiming to deter potential offenders by increasing the personal cost associated with such violations. In addition, the bill introduces measures for the protection of correctional facilities, making it a crime to surveil or compromise these environments using drones, thus emphasizing public safety.

Summary

Senate Bill 195, proposed in New Jersey, establishes specific penalties for the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the furtherance of criminal activities. The legislation aims to address growing concerns surrounding the misuse of drones in committing offenses or aiding in other crimes. The penalties are defined based on the nature of the underlying offense, with crimes committed using a UAS typically resulting in harsher sanctions than those committed independently of such devices. Notably, if a drone is utilized in the commission of a petty or disorderly persons offense, the charge is elevated to a fourth-degree crime, while its usage for more significant offenses increases the severity of the charge by one degree beyond the underlying crime.

Companion Bills

NJ A3096

Same As Establishes penalties for use of unmanned aircraft in furtherance of commission of criminal offense; requires forfeiture of device upon conviction.

Similar Bills

NJ A3096

Establishes penalties for use of unmanned aircraft in furtherance of commission of criminal offense; requires forfeiture of device upon conviction.

NJ A4128

Prohibits operation of drone over school under certain circumstances.

NJ S3018

Prohibits operation of drone over school under certain circumstances.

NJ S4007

Prohibits operation of drone in manner that interferes with airports or military.

IL HB3599

CRIM CD-LASER&LASER POINTER

GA HB1426

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MI HB5849

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CA AB1962

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