An Act relative to unmanned aerial systems

HD 2542 regulates drone operations in Massachusetts by prohibiting municipalities from creating their own drone rules (except as allowed by federal law or state regulations). It bans armed drones, requires compliance with FAA rules (with fines up to $100 for violations), and strictly prohibits drone surveillance of private property without consent, with limited law enforcement exceptions for warrants, terrorism threats, or active emergencies. The bill also mandates that law enforcement delete drone footage within 120 days unless it’s evidence in an ongoing investigation. This directly affects all drone operators, local governments, and public safety agencies in Massachusetts.