The growing presence of drones in the skies above Oklahoma has prompted a state lawmaker to file legislation to regulate their use.
The measure by Republican Rep. Paul Wesselhoft of Moore would prohibit law enforcement authorities from using unmanned aerial vehicles without a search warrant or in other limited circumstances. Wesselhoft says it is designed to protect the privacy rights of Oklahomans and prevent unreasonable searches.
Opponents say Wesselhoft's bill is premature. Retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Toney Stricklin of Lawton, a member of the Oklahoma Unmanned Aircraft Council, says the Federal Aviation Administration is scheduled to issue proposed rules governing the use of drones this fall.
But Brady Henderson, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Oklahoma, says those rules will address public safety, not individual privacy.
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