This legislative proposal aims to significantly restrict federal law enforcement agencies from utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance purposes. It specifically prohibits agencies from intentionally conducting surveillance of, gathering evidence or information about, or photographically or electronically recording a specifically targeted United States citizen or their private property. This measure seeks to protect the privacy of individuals from unwarranted drone monitoring by federal authorities, establishing a clear boundary for government use of such technology. However, the bill outlines specific exceptions where drone use is permissible. Agencies may photograph or record a United States citizen with a UAV if they first obtain the individual's written consent for public dissemination. Furthermore, the prohibition does not apply if the President, through the Secretary of Homeland Security, authorizes use due to a certified high risk of a terrorist attack by a specific individual or organization, requiring a written certification under oath. Alternatively, a federal law enforcement agency may use a UAV if its head first obtains a search warrant signed by a judge specifically authorizing such drone deployment, ensuring judicial oversight. These provisions aim to balance individual privacy with critical national security and law enforcement needs.
Aviation and airportsGovernment information and archivesIntelligence activities, surveillance, classified informationLaw enforcement administration and fundingPhotography and imaging
Buzz Off Act
USA119th CongressHR-96| House
| Updated: 1/3/2025
This legislative proposal aims to significantly restrict federal law enforcement agencies from utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance purposes. It specifically prohibits agencies from intentionally conducting surveillance of, gathering evidence or information about, or photographically or electronically recording a specifically targeted United States citizen or their private property. This measure seeks to protect the privacy of individuals from unwarranted drone monitoring by federal authorities, establishing a clear boundary for government use of such technology. However, the bill outlines specific exceptions where drone use is permissible. Agencies may photograph or record a United States citizen with a UAV if they first obtain the individual's written consent for public dissemination. Furthermore, the prohibition does not apply if the President, through the Secretary of Homeland Security, authorizes use due to a certified high risk of a terrorist attack by a specific individual or organization, requiring a written certification under oath. Alternatively, a federal law enforcement agency may use a UAV if its head first obtains a search warrant signed by a judge specifically authorizing such drone deployment, ensuring judicial oversight. These provisions aim to balance individual privacy with critical national security and law enforcement needs.
Aviation and airportsGovernment information and archivesIntelligence activities, surveillance, classified informationLaw enforcement administration and fundingPhotography and imaging