Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF572

Introduced
3/2/23  
Engrossed
4/11/23  
Introduced
3/2/23  
Refer
6/5/23  
Engrossed
4/11/23  
Enrolled
4/23/24  
Refer
6/5/23  
Passed
5/3/24  
Enrolled
4/23/24  

Caption

A bill for an act prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over certain property, and providing penalties. (Formerly HF 388.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state laws concerning privacy and property rights. By introducing misdemeanor offenses linked to drone surveillance and intrusion, HF572 consolidates protections for individuals and property owners from unwanted aerial encroachments. This could lead to further discussions and potential legislation regarding the broader use of drones and their impact on civil liberties and local governance.

Summary

House File 572, also known as the bill prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft over certain properties, aims to protect privacy and property rights by imposing regulations on drone usage. This legislation defines specific offenses related to intrusion and surveillance by remotely piloted aircraft, providing penalties for violators. As per the bill, individuals controlling drones above private properties without authorization can face misdemeanors, and repeated violations could lead to more severe penalties. It also enables property owners to seek injunctive relief in court against harassment from unauthorized drone activity. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2024.

Sentiment

Discussion around HF572 appears to be generally supportive, particularly from constituencies concerned about privacy and the safety of property. However, some dissent may arise from those in favor of less regulation on drone usage, arguing that the bill could impinge upon technological advancement and the use of drones for legitimate purposes such as agriculture or emergency services. The overall sentiment indicates a proactive approach to balancing technological progress with individual rights.

Contention

Key points of contention stemming from HF572 relate to its enforcement and potential overreach. Critics may argue that the bill could hinder beneficial drone applications, such as agricultural monitoring and disaster response, by imposing strict regulations and penalties. Additionally, the clarity surrounding the definitions of secure farmsteads and homesteads, as well as the delineation of authorized users, can lead to further legal disputes and interpretations, potentially complicating drone usage across various sectors.

Companion Bills

IA HF388

Similar To A bill for an act prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over certain property, and providing penalties.(See HF 572.)

IA SF369

Similar To A bill for an act prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over certain property, and providing penalties.(See SF 520.)

IA SF520

Similar To A bill for an act prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over certain property, and providing penalties.(Formerly SF 369.)

Previously Filed As

IA SF491

A bill for an act prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over farm property, and making penalties applicable. (Formerly SSB 1191.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

IA SSB1191

A bill for an act prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over farm property, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 491.)

IA SB1072

Unmanned aircraft systems; prohibiting use over certain property. Effective date.

IA SB1072

Unmanned aircraft systems; prohibiting use over certain property. Effective date.

IA HF2348

A bill for an act relating to animal torture, and providing penalties. (Formerly HF 557.) Effective date: 07/01/2026.

IA HF706

A bill for an act relating to open meetings and open records, providing penalties, and making penalties applicable. (Formerly HF 416.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

IA HF2542

A bill for an act relating to habitual offenders, and providing penalties. (Formerly HSB 666.) Effective date: 07/01/2026

IA HF928

A bill for an act relating to the recounting and contesting of elections, and providing penalties. (Formerly HF 596.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

IA HF2767

A bill for an act providing for the sale and distribution of certain food, providing for fees, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 2444.)

IA HF306

A bill for an act relating to the dissemination and exhibition of obscene material to minors and providing penalties. (Formerly HF 64.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

Similar Bills

AZ HB2875

local regulation; prohibition; unmanned aircraft

SC H4674

Disposal of abandoned and derelict aircraft

HI SB2399

Relating To A General Excise Tax Exemption For Aircraft Maintenance.

US HB1851

Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act of 2025

US SB873

Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act of 2025

CA AB2043

Countering Unmanned Aircraft Systems Task Force.