Rep. Brian BeGole

Maddy summaryHB 5322 proposes to update Michigan's sentencing guidelines for crimes involving the unauthorized use of unmanned vehicles (like drones) in restricted zones or flight paths, such as near airports or government facilities. If passed, it would create specific sentencing rules for these offenses, directly affecting drone operators who violate such restrictions. The bill amends existing criminal procedure code section 777.12k to establish these new sentencing parameters for this specific violation. This is a policy change focused on clarifying penalties for drone misuse in sensitive areas, not a procedural or commemorative measure.

Maddy summaryHB 5328 requires Michigan state and local government agencies to avoid purchasing or operating drones made by companies listed on specific U.S. federal restricted lists (including defense, military, and commerce sanctions lists). The law phases in restrictions: agencies must stop new purchases of prohibited drones after 2 years and stop operating them after 5 years, with exceptions for governors declaring emergencies. It excludes small drones already compliant with existing rules. This directly affects all public entities using government drones in Michigan.

Maddy summaryHB 5330 requires Michigan public entities (like government agencies) and their contractors to meet strict cybersecurity and data protection standards for small drones (under 55 pounds). It mandates that all collected data (including videos, photos, and personal information) must be stored within the U.S., encrypted with AES-256, and automatically deleted after 45 days unless law enforcement needs it. The bill also requires annual security audits using NIST, ISO 27001, and SOC 2 standards, plus real-time monitoring for cyber threats. The State Police will create regulations to enforce these rules, including network security controls and operator training.

Maddy summaryHB 5324 standardizes "No Drone Zone" signage across Michigan by requiring the state Department of Transportation to adopt a sign based on the FAA's existing design. The sign must display "No Drone Zone" at the top, include a drone image with a red circle slash, state that drone takeoffs/landings are prohibited, and leave space for the specific local ordinance or law enforcing the restriction. This bill directly affects property owners, businesses, and local governments that currently post drone restrictions, providing a uniform format to clarify existing local drone prohibitions without creating new restrictions. The Department of Transportation will publish guidance for using the sign, which must align with current local rules governing drone operations.

Maddy summaryHB 5327 amends Michigan's drone law to prohibit specific drone uses that violate privacy or safety. It bans operating drones to harass people (as defined by existing harassment laws), capture private images in violation of privacy expectations, follow or photograph individuals (especially for sex offenders under registration requirements), or disturb quiet enjoyment of private homes. The bill directly affects all drone operators, with additional restrictions for sex offenders. Key mechanisms include expanding existing drone restrictions to cover harassment, privacy invasions, and proximity to restraining orders. The law takes effect 90 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryHB 5325 allows police officers and private security personnel at critical infrastructure sites (like power plants or bridges) to disable or destroy drones flying in violation of existing laws protecting those sites. It directly affects drone operators who fly near protected infrastructure without authorization. The key provision grants immunity from liability for property damage to the drone when officers act under this law, but only if federal law does not preempt it. This bill creates a specific legal mechanism for responding to unauthorized drone activity at critical infrastructure locations.

Maddy summaryHB 5323 authorizes Michigan state agencies to install technology that detects or blocks unauthorized drones near state-owned buildings and critical infrastructure like power plants or water facilities. The bill allows for two key mechanisms: (1) devices to detect drones flying overhead, and (2) systems to prevent drones from entering restricted airspace. It also requires coordination with the state transportation department to include these locations in a statewide geofencing database. The law explicitly states it does not override federal drone regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 5332 requires Michigan public agencies (like police departments and fire departments) to register all drones they operate, including details about operators, aircraft identification, and intended use. It mandates an annual report to the legislature on drone usage and prohibits public agencies from purchasing or using drones from specific foreign countries or entities listed by federal authorities (such as the U.S. Defense Department's restricted list). Agencies may only buy such drones if they guarantee all collected data stays stored exclusively within the U.S. and complies with federal laws. The bill does not apply to small drones used in compliance with existing safety rules.

Maddy summaryHB 5326 would allow Michigan police officers to intercept, disable, or destroy drones flying in violation of federal aviation rules or posing public safety risks. It directly affects drone operators whose flights breach FAA guidelines and provides officers immunity from liability for damage to the drones. The bill’s key provision requires that federal law first be amended to permit such actions before the state law takes effect. This bill is currently in committee review and does not change existing federal drone regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the Prosecuting Attorneys Coordinating Office Act to restructure how the office operates within the Department of Attorney General. It creates an autonomous office led by a council of five members, including the attorney general and representatives from different county population sizes, to coordinate prosecutorial work across the state. The office will have its own executive secretary appointed by the council, with independent authority to manage personnel, budgeting, and procurement while receiving administrative support from the department. Council members serve one-year terms and must vacate their positions if they leave their roles as prosecuting attorneys or the attorney general.