If enacted, this bill would update current statutes by appropriating $1,000,000 from the state General Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 to the Department of Public Safety (DPS). This funding is designated for distribution to city, town, county, and tribal law enforcement agencies specifically for the purchase and deployment of drones for law enforcement purposes. The bill also includes a provision that exempts this appropriation from lapsing until June 30, 2027, ensuring that the allocated funds remain available for use beyond the typical fiscal year constraints.

The new language introduced by the bill clarifies the purpose of the appropriation and establishes the timeline for its availability, which is a significant update to the existing statutes regarding law enforcement funding. The bill does not alter any existing laws related to the ownership or operation of unmanned aircraft systems, but rather adds a specific financial provision to support law enforcement capabilities through the use of drones.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-208