This bill proposes significant updates to current statutes regarding the operation of unmanned aircraft in relation to critical infrastructure. Under the new provisions, beginning December 31, 2028, the state, its agencies, and independent contractors will be prohibited from using unmanned aircraft manufactured or assembled by companies based in the People's Republic of China for collecting data on restricted critical infrastructure. However, exceptions are made if the unmanned aircraft is equipped with specific security software that meets U.S. standards to prevent data extraction by foreign entities.

Additionally, the bill mandates that an independent third party must verify annually that the security software complies with standards set by the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Arizona Department of Homeland Security. The bill also outlines the criteria for designating critical infrastructure as restricted, which includes considerations of data sensitivity and the availability of alternative data sources. Furthermore, it defines key terms such as "critical infrastructure," "restricted critical infrastructure," and "unmanned aircraft," while exempting certain state and local agencies from the prohibitions outlined in the bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 28-3396, 28-3397, 35-146, 35-147, 41-1730
Senate Engrossed Version: 28-3395
House Engrossed Version: 41-4274