Baldwin Bill Allowing Action Against Drones Clears Senate

A bill authored by State Sen. Scott Baldwin (R-Noblesville) to allow law enforcement to take action against hostile drones passed the Senate unanimously this week.

Senate Bill 227 would create a federally compliant framework allowing Indiana law enforcement to detect and respond to unauthorized drones only when federal law permits. It designates the Indiana State Police as the coordinating agency, sets training and approval standards and provides oversight and liability protections.

“Drones present a growing risk to public safety, including at airports, critical infrastructure, correctional facilities and large public events,” Baldwin said. “This bill ensures Indiana is prepared to respond and creates a clear compliant framework for trained law enforcement.”

 Some of the key provisions contained in the bill include:

• Creates a statewide counter-unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) framework;
• Makes the law contingent on impending federal authorization;

• Defines key counter-UAS terms, including Counter-UAS system and high risk site;

• Designates Indiana State Police as the coordinating agency;

• Requires strict federal compliance and oversight; and

• Allows participation by local law enforcement.

Currently, police agencies in Indiana are limited by the federal government in how they can address nefariously operating drones that threaten the safety of Hoosiers. SB 227 is important because it sets up a framework for Indiana law enforcement officers once the federal government changes guidance and allows state and local police agencies to take actions to disable hostile drones.

SB 227 will now move to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Baldwin represents Senate District 20, which includes Noblesville, Carmel, Cicero and unincorporated areas of Hamilton County.