TX SB1197

Expands Texas Penal Code Section 42.15 to add "spaceport" to existing prohibitions on operating unmanned aircraft (drones) over airports and military installations

Defines "spaceport" as any FAA-licensed property or facility used for launch, landing, recovery, or testing of spacecraft, or facilities operated by a spaceport development corporation under Chapter 507 of the Local Government Code

Creates criminal offense for intentionally or knowingly operating a drone over a spaceport, allowing a drone to make contact with a spaceport or persons/objects on its premises, or operating a drone in a manner that interferes with spaceport operations

Provides defenses to prosecution for government entities, law enforcement, spaceport owners/operators, their contractors, and persons with prior written/electronic authorization from the spaceport owner or FAA

Takes effect September 1, 2025, applying only to offenses committed on or after that date