The proposed bill, titled the "Unmanned Aircraft Systems Safety Act," aims to adopt specific federal regulations regarding the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) within the state of Michigan. It establishes the powers and duties of state and local governmental officers, particularly peace officers, in enforcing these regulations. The bill incorporates federal regulations from 14 CFR parts 89, 91, and 107, which will have the force of state law for enforcement purposes, while also allowing the state transportation department to promulgate necessary rules for administration and enforcement.
The bill outlines civil penalties for violations of the adopted regulations, categorizing them as state civil infractions with fines up to $500 for first-time offenders and up to $1,000 for repeat offenders within a year. More severe violations, such as reckless operation or interference with manned aircraft, may result in misdemeanor charges with potential imprisonment and fines. Additionally, the act clarifies that it applies to recreational UAS operations only as permitted under federal law and does not authorize enforcement actions that contradict federal recreational exceptions.