Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB766

Introduced
12/12/25  
Refer
12/12/25  
Report Pass
3/3/26  

Caption

An Act to renumber 114.045 (1); to renumber and amend 114.045 (3); to create 114.045 (1) (b) and 114.045 (3) (b) of the statutes; Relating to: operation of drones over certain utility facilities and providing a penalty.

Impact

If passed, SB766 will establish legal parameters for drone operation above utility facilities, effectively impacting both drone operators and utility companies. The regulations could include restrictions on flight altitude, necessary permits for operation, and designated no-fly zones to protect sensitive areas. Utility companies may need to implement additional measures to detect and respond to unauthorized drone activity to ensure the continued safety and reliability of their services.

Summary

SB766 seeks to regulate the operation of drones over certain utility facilities. This bill addresses the increasing use of drones near critical infrastructure, emphasizing the need for safety and security in airspace operations around these essential services. By implementing specific regulations, the bill aims to mitigate potential risks associated with unauthorized drone flights over utility facilities, which could lead to service interruptions and safety hazards.

Contention

The discussions surrounding SB766 highlight a balance between technological advancement represented by drone usage and the public's safety. Proponents of the bill argue that clear regulations are essential to prevent accidents and protect vital infrastructure. However, critics may raise concerns about the potential overreach of drone regulations and the implications for recreational drone users and commercial operators, stressing the importance of maintaining an open airspace for legitimate use.

Companion Bills

WI AB768

Crossfiled An Act to renumber 114.045 (1); to renumber and amend 114.045 (3); to create 114.045 (1) (b) and 114.045 (3) (b) of the statutes; Relating to: operation of drones over certain utility facilities and providing a penalty.

Previously Filed As

WI AB768

Operation of drones over certain utility facilities and providing a penalty.

WI H4679

South Carolina Drone Regulation and Public Safety Act

WI HB3824

Relating to fire safety standards and emergency operations plans for the operation of battery energy storage facilities; providing administrative penalties.

WI AB530

The operation of drones over school property and providing a penalty.

WI SB519

The operation of drones over school property and providing a penalty.

WI HB155

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 56-580.1, relating to electric utilities; certificate of operation for high-load facilities.

WI HB5847

Public utilities: electric utilities; cyber-physical security and operational technology protections for electric utility facilities and natural gas utilities; provide for. Amends 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1 - 460.11) by adding 10ii.

WI HB1207

An Act to amend and reenact ยงยง 38.2-107.2, 38.2-135, 38.2-316, and 38.2-1800 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 38.2-107.3 and by adding in Title 60.2 a chapter numbered 8, consisting of sections numbered 60.2-800 through 60.2-818, relating to paid family and medical leave insurance program established; notice requirements; civil action; penalty.

WI HB1280

Increase penalties for the operation of drones over certain facilities and to provide for mitigation techniques and countermeasures.

WI AB100

An act to amend the Budget Act of 2023 (Chapters 12, 38, and 189 of the Statutes of 2023) by amending Items 5227-122-0001 and 7502-495 of Section 2.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.