IL HB5275

Creates the Drone Safety and Interference Prevention Act establishing three new offenses: unlawful imaging of emergency response activities, unlawful operation over critical infrastructure facilities, and unlawful operation over correctional institutions.

Prohibits private drone operators from equipping drones with firearms, weaponized lasers, kinetic impact projectiles, chemical agents, or any lethal or non-lethal weapons, with penalties ranging from Class A misdemeanor to Class 1 felony if death results.

Restricts drone operation within 1,000 feet laterally and below 400 feet altitude of emergency response activities, and within 250 feet horizontally of critical infrastructure or correctional facilities.

Authorizes law enforcement to seize drones used in violation of the Act, with forfeited equipment available for law enforcement training and counter-drone operations; non-evidentiary data must be deleted within 30 days.

Effective January 1, 2027, with exemptions for government agencies, law enforcement, facility owners, and operators with FAA authorization or incident commander approval.