Virginia House Bill HB2592

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25

Caption

Trespass with an unmanned aircraft system; penalties.

Impact

If enacted, HB2592 would reinforce the legal framework surrounding drone usage in Virginia, primarily aimed at protecting individual privacy and maintaining security in sensitive areas such as correctional institutions and critical infrastructure. The bill categorizes offenses related to drone trespass into different classes with escalating penalties, which could serve as a deterrent for potential violators. Additionally, it addresses unauthorized drone operations that could threaten public safety and infrastructure security, potentially increasing the accountability of drone operators.

Summary

House Bill 2592 seeks to amend and reenact section 18.2-121.3 of the Code of Virginia regarding the trespass with unmanned aircraft systems. The bill imposes specific penalties for individuals who use drones in ways that invade the privacy of others, particularly concerning residential properties and correctional facilities. The legislation establishes a hierarchy of offenses, distinguishing between misdemeanors and felonies depending on the severity of the drone's actions, such as unauthorized entry over private property or obtaining images of inmates in correctional facilities.

Contention

The introduction of this bill may ignite discussions regarding the balance between leveraging drone technology for personal or commercial use against the necessity to uphold privacy rights and public safety. Supporters of the bill may argue that it is essential to create clear regulations to prevent misuse of drone technology and to protect vulnerable facilities like jails and critical infrastructure from espionage or harassment. However, critics might contend that such regulations could hinder the beneficial uses of drones in fields like journalism, environmental monitoring, and personal recreation, raising concerns about the potential overreach of governmental control over emerging technologies.