SB 994 Summary

• Amends Michigan's Aeronautics Code to add definitions for "small unmanned aircraft" (weighs less than 55 pounds), "unmanned aircraft system" (unmanned aircraft and associated control elements), and clarifies existing definitions for seaplanes, seaplane bases, and airport surfaces.

• Creates an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Task Force composed of 18 members including representatives from state departments (transportation, state police, natural resources, agriculture, licensing), industry groups, professional associations, and FAA-licensed operators.

• Requires the Governor to appoint task force members within 90 days of the bill's effective date, with nominations submitted within 60 days; the State Transportation Department member serves as chair and liaison to the Governor and legislature.

• Directs the task force to develop comprehensive policy recommendations addressing commercial and private unmanned aircraft uses, landowner and privacy rights, and safe operation rules, to be submitted to the Governor and legislative transportation committees within 3 months of the first meeting.

• Takes effect 90 days after enactment and is contingent on Senate Bill 432 being enacted into law.