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House backs resolution to promote unmanned aircraft testing and protect privacy
Summary
HCR 3 urges state agencies to pursue unmanned aircraft systems testing opportunities, directs GoEd to explore a testing range, and reaffirms Fourth Amendment privacy protections for data collected by UAS; the House passed the resolution 71-1.
Representative Val Peterson introduced HCR 3, a concurrent resolution recognizing the developing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) industry in Utah and urging state entities to pursue testing-range opportunities and partnerships with academia and industry. An amendment directing the Governor's Office of Economic Development to explore possibilities for a testing range was adopted on the floor.
The resolution also expressly recognizes concerns about privacy and includes language affirming Utahns' Fourth Amendment protections; the sponsor said the resolution would ensure UAS-derived information would require a warrant before it could be used in ways that implicate constitutional protections. Supporters highlighted economic-development potential tied to Hill Air Force Base, Dugway Proving Grounds and state universities' work on UAS testing and repair.
Supporters and skeptics both spoke on the floor; Representative Lippert called the inclusion of Fourth Amendment language important and said the resolution is timely as unmanned systems become a growing industry. The House approved the resolution 71-1 and will transmit it to the Senate.
