Michigan House Bill HB5332

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/2/25
• Refer: 12/2/25
• Report Pass: 3/10/26
• Report Pass: 4/30/26

Caption

Law enforcement: funds; purchase or use of certain drones by public agencies; prohibit. Amends 2016 PA 436 (MCL 259.301 - 259.331) by adding sec. 6. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5330'25

Impact

The implementation of HB 5332 could significantly modify existing regulations regarding drone operations within the state. By introducing a formal registry, the bill aims to streamline the tracking and oversight of drone usage, which is particularly pertinent given the increasing adoption of unmanned aircraft for various public services. This alteration is expected to enhance compliance with both state and federal regulations regarding drone usage, potentially improving data privacy and security measures surrounding the operation of these aircraft by public agencies.

Summary

House Bill 5332 aims to amend the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act to enhance oversight and regulation of unmanned aircraft systems operated by public entities in Michigan. The bill mandates the establishment of a registry to maintain records of all unmanned aircraft operated by public entities, ensuring transparency and accountability in their use. This registry will be accessible to the public and will include important details such as the identity of the public entity, operators, aircraft details, and intended use. By instituting these requirements, the bill seeks to better manage the operations of drones in state jurisdiction, particularly amid rising concerns around unauthorized surveillance and data collection.

Contention

The bill touches on issues of national security as it outlines prohibitions on procurement from certain entities considered threats to security, such as those on the Department of Defense's list of sanctioned entities. Critics may argue that the stipulations could impede the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of public entity operations, especially if fewer suppliers are allowed to provide necessary equipment and services. Furthermore, as the bill prescribes regulations on data handling and storage, there may be discussions around the implications of these requirements on the operational capabilities of local agencies.

Notable_points

Support for the bill may come from a desire to oversee the increasing use of drones and mitigate risks associated with privacy violations and unauthorized data access. However, there may also be opposition from advocacy groups concerned with overregulation that might compromise the efficacy of public services which rely on drones for various applications. The inclusion of yearly reports to the legislature reflects an effort to maintain accountability, but it may also lead to additional bureaucratic processes.