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Senate passes drone regulation bill that encourages industry while requiring warrants for law-enforcement use
Summary
Senate Bill 167 passed the Senate after sponsors said it supports drone development and sets legal limits on law-enforcement use, including language that encourages manufacturing and asks for warrants for surveillance.
The Senate approved second substitute Senate Bill 167, legislation regulating unmanned aerial vehicles. Sponsor Senator Stevenson told the chamber the bill "is not an anti drone bill" and that it contains a statement of intent "to encourage the development and manufacture of unmanned aerial vehicles in Utah." He said the bill seeks to ensure law enforcement uses the technology "within the bounds of the law and using rule of law by getting a warrant to do so."
Stevenson said the legislation reflects substantial stakeholder work and amendments made in committee. Senators offered few substantive objections on floor; Senator Dayton expressed appreciation for the careful drafting and called the measure potentially model legislation for other states.
The clerk recorded the passage of the second substitute SB167 by a vote of 23 ayes, 0 nays and 6 absent. The bill will be sent to the House for its consideration.
Supporters framed SB167 as balancing industry development with civil-liberties protections; the sponsor emphasized a desire to protect public safety while supporting local industry growth.
