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Legislature advances bill banning unauthorized drones over correctional facilities
Summary
Lawmakers moved Bill 19138 forward after proponents cited Department of Corrections and homeland security concerns that drones could smuggle contraband; the measure sets a $1,000 minimum fine or six months imprisonment for first offenders and directs fines to the Corrections Revolving Fund.
Senator Gumatato introduced Bill 19138, a measure to prohibit unauthorized unmanned aircraft operations over Guam correctional and detention facilities, including Department of Corrections property and GPD-managed detention centers. The bill’s floor presentation cited DOC testimony that drones have been used repeatedly to deliver contraband to secured perimeters and argued for statutory penalties to bolster safety.
The amended bill creates an enforcement penalty structure—a minimum $1,000 fine or six months in jail for first-time violators—with proceeds deposited into the Corrections Revolving Fund to support DOC operations such as overtime and inmate care. Supporters said the change aligns with homeland-security priorities and noted coordination with the Office of the Attorney General and DOC during drafting.
Proponents also said the Legislature’s action could support FAA applications to restrict drone operations over sensitive facilities. Lawmakers added a co-sponsor and moved the measure to the voting/finance file; the motion carried without objection. Supporters emphasized the bill is a targeted safety step, not a ban on lawful drone uses for emergency response or other authorized operations.
The next step is committee/voting review and a formal vote on final passage.
