House Bill No. 2916 introduces a new affirmative defense for individuals facing criminal or civil liability for disabling, damaging, or destroying unmanned aircraft. The bill amends Chapter 423 of the Government Code by adding Section 423.010, which stipulates that a person may defend against prosecution for property damage under specific sections of the Penal Code if they meet certain criteria. These criteria include being on property they own or legally occupy, using a legally possessed firearm to disable or destroy an unmanned aircraft that was unauthorized to be on or over their property, and not being prohibited from discharging the firearm under relevant laws or regulations.

The provisions of this bill will only apply to conduct occurring on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any actions taken before this date will be governed by the existing laws in effect at that time, ensuring that the previous legal framework remains applicable for past conduct.

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Introduced: ()