Would Make Flying In Some Areas A Class E Felony

A bill introduced into the Tennessee Legislature would make flying a drone in some areas a Class E felony punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.

The bill, introduced by state Sen. Jon Lundberg, R-Bristol, and state Rep. Bud Husley, R-Kingsport would increase the penalties "using an unmanned aircraft over a critical infrastructure facility without the business operator's consent from a Class C misdemeanor to a Class E felony," according to the Tennessee General Assembly website.

Television station WJHL reports that the Tennessee State Code (Annotated) defines critical infrastructure as "any assets that the destruction or exploitation of can:

• Cause adverse health effects or large mass casualties.
• Impair federal departments and agencies.
• Undermine state and local government.
• Damage the private sector’s capability to deliver essential services.
• Negatively affect the economy.
• Undermine the public’s morale and confidence."

Sen Lundberg told the station that the intent of his bill was to protect places like Eastman Chemical Company of the Bristol Motor Speedway from terrorists or others who might want to use drones to do harm in the area or steal company secrets. He said companies have the same right to privacy as individuals, but that does not mean that if the businesses are "doing something bad they shouldn't be exposed."

The bill was introduced and passed on first consideration January 31 in the state Senate. It has been introduced in the State House. There is no date set for any additional action as of this writing.

(Image from file)

FMI: Bill Info, Source report