The proposed bill, Substitute House Bill No. 6289, aims to authorize the use of precision drones for the analysis, treatment, and application of fertilizers and pesticides to crops. It mandates that the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) commissioner amend existing regulations by March 1, 2026, to allow licensed commercial or private pesticide applicators, who are also certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to operate precision drones, to utilize these drones for planting seeds and applying agricultural substances. The bill repeals and replaces subsection (e) of section 22a-54 of the general statutes, which previously governed the certification of aircraft applicators, and introduces new provisions regarding the use of drones in agricultural practices.

Key changes in the bill include the deletion of certain regulatory language and the insertion of new requirements for drone operators. Specifically, the commissioner is tasked with establishing regulations that govern the types of aircraft used, operational hours, weather conditions for spraying, and insurance requirements. Additionally, the bill allows for the waiver of application form and fee requirements in cases where aerial application of pesticides is necessary to address imminent public health threats. Overall, the bill seeks to modernize agricultural practices by integrating drone technology while ensuring public health and safety are prioritized.