An Act relative to unmanned aerial systems

SD 509 regulates drone (UAS/UAV) operations in Massachusetts. It prohibits municipalities from creating local drone rules beyond federal or state guidelines, bans armed drones, and restricts drone surveillance without individual consent (with specific law enforcement exceptions for warrants, terrorism threats, or emergencies). The bill imposes fines for violations, including up to $100 for FAA rule breaches, $2,000 for armed drones, and $10,000 for causing aircraft crashes. It also requires law enforcement to delete drone footage within 120 days unless it contains evidence of a crime. This bill directly affects all drone operators, law enforcement agencies, and municipalities.