House Bill No. 3272 amends the Texas Penal Code to include the operation of unmanned aircraft over spaceports as a criminal offense. The bill modifies Section 42.15, which now explicitly states that the operation of unmanned aircraft is prohibited over airports, military installations, and spaceports. A new definition of "spaceport" is introduced, describing it as any property or facility used for the launch, landing, or recovery of spacecraft, which is licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration or operated by a spaceport development corporation.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific actions that constitute an offense, such as intentionally operating an unmanned aircraft over a spaceport or allowing it to make contact with persons or objects on the premises. It also provides defenses to prosecution for certain entities, including government agencies and individuals acting under their direction, as well as those with prior authorization from the relevant authorities. The changes in law will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to offenses committed after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 42.15 (Penal Code 42)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 42.15 (Penal Code 42)