SC H4679

Requires all drone operators to comply with FAA regulations, including registering drones over 0.55 pounds, obtaining Part 107 certification for commercial use, and passing the TRUST test for recreational flying

Prohibits drone operation within 5 miles of airports without FAA authorization, within 1,000 feet of critical infrastructure, and within 1,500 feet of correctional facilities or military installations without written consent

Makes it illegal to use drones for privacy invasion, surveillance without consent, stalking, delivering contraband to prisons, weaponization, or interfering with law enforcement/emergency responder drones

Establishes misdemeanor penalties for basic violations (up to $1,000 fine and 30 days for first offense, escalating to $5,000 and 1 year for third offense) and felony penalties for serious violations (up to $50,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment for interference causing injury or death)

Exempts law enforcement, military, emergency responders, FAA-authorized commercial operations, and state-approved research/agricultural drone operations from these restrictions