SB 92: Florida Senate panel clears drones bill, would limit use by law enforcement agencies

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- A Senate panel has unanimously cleared a measure that would limit Florida's law enforcement agencies from using drones.

The Senate Judiciary committee Tuesday voted 9-0 to advance the bill (SB 92) that addresses various sizes of aircraft that are piloted remotely.

They've become well known from their use by the U.S. against terrorists overseas.

Sen. Joe Negron's bill would restrict drones' use to "prevent(ing) imminent danger to life or serious damage to property."

The bill would also make police get a search warrant before using a drone to collect evidence.

An exception would be a "credible" threat of terrorist attack.

Only the Miami-Dade Police and Orange County Sheriff's Office currently have drones among Florida police.

A Miami-Dade police lieutenant said his agency hasn't yet used a drone.