AR HB1646

Expands the definition of "critical infrastructure" to include railroad operating facilities, including railroad rights-of-way, in addition to electrical power systems, petroleum refineries, chemical/rubber manufacturing facilities, and petroleum/chemical storage facilities.

Defines "unmanned aircraft system" as an unmanned, powered aircraft that does not carry a human operator and can be autonomous, remotely piloted, or operated, and can be expendable or recoverable.

Exempts unmanned aircraft systems used by federal government entities or their contractors for surveillance of critical infrastructure from the unlawful use offense.

Exempts unmanned aircraft systems used by the state after consultation with the Governor or by state contractors for critical infrastructure surveillance, as well as systems authorized by the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management.

Exempts unmanned aircraft used by law enforcement, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response teams, and disaster management agencies for incident command, reconnaissance, deployment monitoring, training, or related emergency purposes.