If passed, HB 434 will have significant implications for the management of state parks and the regulation of drone usage. The bill establishes a fee structure where commercial drone operators would be charged a daily fee of up to $25 for flying in designated areas. Furthermore, it stipulates potential fines for various violations, including failure to retrieve drones or engaging in unauthorized video surveillance. These measures are expected to generate some revenue that would be credited to the state park fund, although the exact financial impact remains uncertain.
Summary
House Bill 434-FN proposes regulations concerning the use of drones in state parks within New Hampshire. The bill aims to permit both commercial and recreational drone operations, contingent upon the operators possessing the appropriate certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or having passed the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Additionally, it outlines specific exceptions where drone operations are prohibited in certain locations, particularly those that may interfere with other park visitors or are in ski areas during the season.
Contention
There is potential for contention regarding this bill, as the implications of allowing drones in state parks might raise concerns among park users about privacy, noise, and safety. The bill specifies that operators are fully liable for any damages caused by their drones and sets penalties for violations, which might prompt discussions about enforcement and the adequacy of these measures. Additionally, the exceptions laid out in the bill may create debate over what constitutes reasonable enjoyment of the parks and how these exceptions might be implemented and enforced.
Aeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; flying over or trespassing on a key facility or critical infrastructure with an unmanned aircraft or vehicle; prohibit. Amends sec. 45a of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.45a).
Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for flying over or trespassing on a key facility or critical infrastructure with an unmanned aircraft or vehicle; provide for. Amends 16b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.16b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5319'25
Aeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; destruction of drones flying in violation of critical infrastructure guidelines; allow. Amends 2016 PA 436 (MCL 259.301 - 259.331) by adding sec. 8a.
Aeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; destruction of drones flying in violation of Federal Aviation Administration guidelines; allow. Amends 2016 PA 436 (MCL 259.301 - 259.331) by adding sec. 8.