The bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance regulations surrounding unmanned aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems, particularly in relation to critical infrastructure facilities. It revises the definition of "critical infrastructure facility" to include various types of facilities such as power generation sites, chemical manufacturing plants, and communication facilities, with new provisions allowing drone operations for commercial purposes if authorized by Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The bill also increases the penalties for violations related to drone operations over these facilities, changing the penalty from a misdemeanor to a felony of the third degree for certain prohibited actions.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions for "unmanned aircraft" and "unmanned aircraft system," and prohibits the possession or operation of drones with attached weapons or explosives. It establishes criminal penalties for tampering with drones to evade identification requirements and outlines exceptions for law enforcement use of drones in specific situations, such as monitoring large crowds or ensuring the security of elected officials. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1121 Filed: 330.41, 330.411, 934.50
H 1121 c1: 330.411, 934.50
H 1121 c2: 330.411, 934.50
H 1121 er: 330.411, 934.50