House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to address the unlawful use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in Louisiana, particularly during parades. The bill introduces new definitions, including "mitigation measures," which refer to actions taken to neutralize or disrupt UAS operations that pose a threat, and "nefarious manner," which describes illegal or harmful uses of UAS, such as spying or smuggling. It establishes that law enforcement may take necessary actions against UAS operating in a nefarious manner, including detection, tracking, and interception, provided there is reasonable suspicion of criminal activity or imminent threat to public safety.
Additionally, the bill creates a specific offense for the unlawful use of UAS at parades, defining such use as intentional operation by unauthorized individuals over designated parade routes. Penalties for this offense include fines ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 and possible imprisonment for up to one year, along with the forfeiture of the UAS involved. The bill also mandates the posting of "Drone No Fly Zone" notices along parade routes and clarifies that ignorance of the law is not a valid defense. Exceptions are made for UAS used in authorized film productions. The act is officially titled the "We Will Act" Act.