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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah lawmakers are taking aim at government drones. Before any hit the skies, a new bill would limit their use in Utah. It's all about privacy.
The proposal, SB167, would set boundaries on when state agencies like law enforcement could use airborn information gathering.
The bill's sponsor, Sen. Howard Stephenson, R-Draper, said he understands the use of drones for military use in combat zones, but not on ordinary citizens.
"I think it's sort of a climate we are living in today with modern technology," he said. "We need to ensure where those boundaries are."
The bill requires a warrant and written consent form from the target before a drone is used by government.
"Citizens across the nation are concerned about their privacy with electronic means of communication," Stephenson added. "They should also be concerned about their privacy as it relates to surveillance by these unmanned aircraft."
The bill also states that drones can be used in emergencies, like natural disasters.
The Utah bill is similar to one that just passed a vote in California’s state assembly.
Contributing: Dave Cawley
