Domestic Drones (H 5780, S 0411)

The General Assembly considered, but took no action on, a pair of bills aimed at restricting the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, by law enforcement.  Although the technology is not used in Rhode Island yet, increasing interest by law enforcement nationwide indicates drones are on their way.  Currently, state law lacks any privacy protections before drones can be used.  In April, the ACLU testified before the House Judiciary committee on ACLU-drafted legislation that sought to implement some protections, including requiring a warrant before a drone can be used for most surveillance. In March, the ACLU of RI testified before the Senate Judiciary committee of a similar bill.