Assembly Bill 629 aims to enhance law enforcement's ability to address threats posed by drones, particularly in the context of correctional institutions. The bill allows law enforcement officers to detect, track, and identify drones that are suspected of posing an imminent threat to public safety. Officers are also authorized to intercept, disable, or destroy such drones using lawful methods, including jamming or physically capturing them. Importantly, the bill stipulates that neither the officer nor their employing agency will be held financially liable for any damage or loss of a drone that is intercepted or destroyed in this manner.

Additionally, the bill introduces stricter penalties for violations related to drone operations over correctional institutions. While current law imposes a forfeiture of up to $5,000 for unauthorized drone operations, the new legislation escalates the penalty to a Class H felony if the violation involves a weaponized drone—defined as a drone equipped with devices such as tasers, firearms, or explosives. The bill also clarifies the definitions of "drone," "law enforcement officer," and "weaponized drone" to ensure clear understanding and enforcement of these provisions.