The proposed bill, known as the "state geofencing act," aims to regulate the operation of unmanned vehicles by establishing a state geofencing database that identifies restricted zones where such vehicles cannot be operated. The bill mandates the state transportation department to create and maintain this database, which must be publicly accessible and compatible with unmanned vehicle technology. Restricted zones may include state-owned properties, local government properties, privately owned critical infrastructure, and key facilities as defined by existing law. Additionally, the department is required to develop a mobile application that integrates the geofencing database and alerts operators when they are approaching or violating a restricted zone.
Violating the prohibition on operating unmanned vehicles in restricted zones is classified as a felony, with penalties including imprisonment for up to four years and/or fines up to $2,500. The bill also clarifies that its provisions will only apply to the extent that they do not conflict with federal law.