Would Require A Warrant Before Law Enforcement Could Use The Aircraft Except In Certain Emergencies

A bill working its way through the California Legislature would require law enforcement agencies to obtain a warrant before using a UAV except in certain situations.

The bill passed the California Senate 25-8 with bipartisan support Tuesday night in Sacramento. It would require law enforcement agencies to obtain a warrant before using the aircraft except in the case of an emergency such as a hostage-taking or fire.

The bill also states that other government agencies would be able to use the aircraft in support of their "core missions" so long as it does not include gathering criminal intelligence. It also would require the destruction of photos, video, or other data gathered by the aircraft after one year.

According to a report from Reuters, the bill's sponsor, State Senator Ted Lieu (D), said that there is a high potential for abuse of the aircraft, and "we need to be vigilant to ensure our Constitutional rights are protected."

The bill is supported by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, but was opposed by the California Police Chiefs Association, The California State Sheriff's Association, and other law enforcement groups.

The bill as amended by the state Senate now goes back to the state Assembly for another vote. If it passes there, it would go to Governor Jerry Brown (D) for his signature.

FMI: http://senate.ca.gov