This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to unmanned aircraft systems (drones) and their operation over critical infrastructure facilities. It revises the definition of "critical infrastructure facility" to include various types of facilities such as power generation sites, water treatment plants, and military installations, while also adding "wired communications facilities" to the list. The bill introduces an exception allowing drone operations over these facilities for commercial purposes, provided they comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations. Additionally, it increases the penalties for violations related to drone operations, changing certain offenses from misdemeanors to felonies.

Furthermore, the bill defines "unmanned aircraft" and "unmanned aircraft system," and prohibits the possession or operation of drones with attached weapons or explosives. It allows individuals to use reasonable force to prevent drones from conducting surveillance on their private property without consent, as long as the drone is operating below 500 feet. The bill also outlines criminal penalties for violations of these provisions, including misdemeanors for unauthorized surveillance and felonies for distributing such surveillance. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1422 Filed: 330.41, 330.411, 934.50
S 1422 c1: 330.411
S 1422 c2: 330.411