Georgia Lawmakers Weigh Regulating Drones

Georgia would take the first steps to regulating the use of drones through legislation under consideration in the General Assembly.

Republican Rep. Harry Geisinger, of Roswell, is the lead sponsor of a bill to provide for the lawful use of unmanned aircraft in certain circumstances. A separate bill by Republican Rep. Stephen Allison, of Blairsville, would prohibit manned or unmanned aircraft from flying within 100 feet above the surface of a property for surveillance without a warrant or permission of the owner.

Geisinger says his bill is aimed at preserving privacy rights, while adding oversight and reporting by law enforcement. The bill establishes legal situations for drones to capture images, such as for university research, military operations and law enforcement activities.

Thirteen states enacted laws last year addressing drone use.