Senate Bill No. SLS 25RS-37 aims to enhance the regulation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) by prohibiting their use over federal and state military installations and facilities without prior written consent from the facility commander. The bill amends existing law to include specific definitions and penalties related to this unlawful use. Notably, it introduces a new provision that defines the intentional use of a UAS for surveillance or interference with military operations as a criminal offense. The bill also clarifies what constitutes a "federal or state military installation or facility" and provides a detailed definition of an "unmanned aircraft system."

The proposed law establishes significant penalties for violations, including fines ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 and imprisonment at hard labor for up to five years. Additionally, it mandates the forfeiture of the unmanned aircraft involved in the offense, allowing for its destruction, sale, or other disposition. This legislation is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and reflects a commitment to safeguarding military operations from unauthorized surveillance and interference.

Statutes affected:
SB9 Original: 14:337(A)(1)
SB9 Engrossed: 14:337(A)(1)