Will Louisiana Ban Drone Surveillance on Residents?

It may soon be unlawful for anyone to spy on Louisiana residents using drone technology. Last week, the State Senate gave their stamp of approval on two measures that would place strict guidelines on drone photography. However, shortly after the measures received approval, the bill aimed at preventing drones from “flying over anything termed critical infrastructure” was killed.

That means drone users will not need to obtain permission to conduct surveillance on power plants, mass transportations systems, water treatment facilities, among others.

However, a bill aimed at protecting the privacy of Louisiana residents still remains in the House for consideration. This bill, the Deterrence of Reconnaissance Over Noncriminal Entities (DRONE) Act, would make it illegal for drones to “capture an image of an individual or privately owned immovable property with the intent to conduct surveillance.”

Unfortunately, there are stipulations to this bill that would still allow law enforcement to use drones to assist in criminal investigations.