NC H337

Removes exemption for model aircraft from unmanned aircraft systems laws, reclassifying them as unmanned aircraft subject to state regulations effective December 1, 2017.

Repeals restrictions on the use of special imaging technology by unmanned aircraft systems.

Authorizes emergency management agencies to use unmanned aircraft systems for emergency functions including incident command, search and rescue, damage assessment, and floodplain mapping.

Aligns state permitting requirements with federal law by updating operator age and identification standards, and prohibiting state rules from being more restrictive than Federal Aviation Administration regulations.

Creates exemption for model aircraft used solely for hobby or recreational purposes without compensation from state training and permitting requirements.