Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed a bill that would have prohibited law enforcement from using armed drones and robots in California. The veto of AB 2681, reported by The Sacramento Bee, allows Police to continue deploying remotely operated devices equipped with weapons.
Proposed Ban on Weaponized Robots
Assemblywoman Akilah Weber introduced AB 2681, which aimed to make it illegal to “manufacture, modify, sell, transfer or operate a robotic device equipped with a weapon.” The bill specifically did not exempt law enforcement from this prohibition.
Weber expressed disappointment with the veto, stating she felt “blindsided” by last-minute opposition after the bill had previously sailed through the legislature with bipartisan support. She plans to reintroduce similar legislation next year.
Governor Cites Law Enforcement Needs
In his veto statement, Newsom said he supports placing “common sense restrictions on drones” but believes police should retain the ability to use armed robots in certain situations. He echoed arguments from police groups, writing:
“For example, when confronted with armed and barricated suspects, law enforcement agencies sometimes use remotely operated robots to deploy less-lethal force to drive these suspects into the open or protect officers from dangerous suspects.”
Criticism from Civil Liberties Groups
The ACLU of California strongly criticized the veto. Legislative attorney George Parampathu said:
“Police are meant to serve and protect the public, not wage war against them.” He argued Newsom was prioritizing “the whims of the police lobby and the profits of weapons manufacturers over the safety, privacy, and freedom of California residents.”
Implications for Police Drone Use
The veto means California law enforcement can continue developing and deploying armed aerial drones and ground-based robots. Supporters say these provide tactical options to resolve dangerous situations, while critics warn of potential misuse and escalation of force.
DroneXL’s Take
This veto highlights the ongoing debate around drone technology in law enforcement.
While armed Police Drones and robots raise valid concerns, it’s important to consider the nuanced regulatory environment and potential benefits alongside the risks.
Federal Context: It’s worth noting that the FAA generally prohibits arming drones, but law enforcement agencies often have exemptions for specific uses. This federal backdrop adds another layer to the state-level decision in California.
Balancing Act: The governor’s decision reflects the challenging balance between providing law enforcement with tactical options and addressing civil liberties concerns. Non-Weaponized drones have proven invaluable for Search and Rescue, accident reconstruction, and de-escalation, demonstrating the technology’s potential benefits.
Ongoing Debate: As drone capabilities expand, the discussion around their appropriate use in law enforcement is likely to continue. Key considerations include:
- Officer safety in dangerous situations
- Potential for misuse or excessive force
- Privacy concerns for citizens
- The broader implications of police militarization
Future Legislation: With plans to reintroduce similar legislation next year, this issue remains active. It will be crucial to monitor how other states approach this topic and whether federal regulations evolve in response to these state-level debates.
Public Input: As this technology continues to develop, public discourse and input will be vital in shaping policies that balance public safety, civil liberties, and technological advancement.
What are your thoughts on police use of drones, both armed and unarmed? How do you think we can strike the right balance between leveraging technology for public safety and protecting civil liberties? Share your perspective in the comments below.
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