Uncrewed aircraft; operation

COMMENTARY ON §§711-1120 TO 711-1124 Act 161, Session Laws 2024, added this part to: (1) establish the felony offenses of misuse of uncrewed aircraft in the first, second, and third degrees; and (2) require uncrewed aircraft to be operated by a human operator at all times. The legislature found that the civilian use of drones had become increasingly popular among the general public, and this use increased the risk of drones being utilized to harm people and property. The legislature further found that drones may be used to conduct illegal activities including the drug trade, gang activities, smuggling contraband, and facilitating assaults. Accordingly, the legislature noted that Act 161 would adjust to the increasing availability and use of drones by the public, discourage the misuse of drones that is detrimental to others, and ensure that state and county prosecutors are equipped to properly charge these types of offenses. Senate Standing Committee Report No. 3684, Senate Standing Committee Report No. 3224.