CS/CS/HB 119 Summary

• Creates the "Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance Act" prohibiting law enforcement agencies from using drones to gather evidence or information

• Defines a "drone" as a powered, unmanned aerial vehicle that uses aerodynamic forces for lift, can operate autonomously or remotely, and can carry lethal or nonlethal payloads

• Provides three exceptions allowing drone use: to counter credible terrorist threats as determined by the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, with a judge-signed search warrant, or when reasonable suspicion exists that swift action is needed to prevent imminent danger, escape of suspects, or destruction of evidence

• Allows aggrieved parties to initiate civil actions for violations and makes evidence obtained in violation of the act inadmissible in criminal prosecutions in Florida courts

• Takes effect July 1, 2013