Ga. lawmakers weigh regulating drones

Feb 2, 2014 - 23:55
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By CHRISTINA A. CASSIDY
Associated Press

ATLANTA (AP) - Georgia would take the first steps to regulating the use of drones through legislation under consideration in the General Assembly.

Republican Rep. Harry Geisinger, of Roswell, is the lead sponsor of a bill to provide for the lawful use of unmanned aircraft in certain circumstances. A separate bill by Republican Rep. Stephen Allison, of Blairsville, would prohibit manned or unmanned aircraft from flying within 100 feet above the surface of a property for surveillance without a warrant or permission of the owner.

Geisinger says his bill is aimed at preserving privacy rights, while adding oversight and reporting by law enforcement. The bill establishes legal situations for drones to capture images, such as for university research, military operations and law enforcement activities.

Thirteen states enacted laws last year addressing drone use.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Mike Gallagher Mike Gallagher is a Georgia-based freelance journalist covering local news, community developments, and regional issues that matter most to residents across the state. Writing for Georgianewsday.com since 2016, Mike has built a reputation for clear, balanced reporting and a strong connection to the communities he serves. His work spans city council decisions, school board updates, small business features, public safety reports, and statewide policy changes. In addition to local coverage, Mike occasionally reports on state politics and national headlines, offering readers context on how broader decisions impact Georgia communities. Known for his steady, fact-driven approach, Mike prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and accessibility in every story. Whether covering a town hall meeting or breaking political developments, he aims to inform readers with clarity and integrity. Outside the newsroom, Mike remains actively engaged in Georgia’s civic landscape, always seeking the next story that shapes the state’s future.