Texas House Bill HB376

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of certain criminal offenses involving disabling, damaging, or destroying an unmanned aircraft.

Impact

The proposed amendment to the Government Code adds Section 423.010, which stipulates that individuals who legally possess firearms can assert an affirmative defense against property damage charges if they disable or destroy an unmanned aircraft under certain conditions. These conditions include being on property owned or legally occupied by the individual and not being legally prohibited from discharging the firearm. This provision is expected to impact the legal landscape surrounding privacy and property rights, particularly relating to drone operations in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 376 introduces amendments regarding the prosecution of certain criminal offenses when it involves the disabling, damaging, or destroying of unmanned aircraft. The bill is aimed at providing property owners with specific legal protections and affirmative defenses when dealing with unauthorized drones on their property. By allowing property owners to use a firearm to neutralize a drone unlawfully present, the bill seeks to clarify and solidify the rights of individuals in response to what they might perceive as intrusions by unmanned aircraft.

Contention

While the bill aims to empower property owners, it could potentially escalate confrontations involving drones. Critics may raise concerns regarding the implications of allowing firearms to be used against unmanned aircraft, as such actions could lead to unintended consequences or accidents. The balance between property rights and safety becomes a point of contention, with discussions likely surrounding the regulations and safety measures that should accompany the usage of firearms in these situations.