In the land of sun-soaked beaches and charming theme parks, otherwise known as Florida, a robust debate is brewing that might just have homeowners cocking their shotguns skywards. The state’s lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow homeowners to use “reasonable force” to take down drones hovering over their private property. This might sound like a scene from a futuristic Western, with drones and the right to defend one’s backyard turf at high noon.
The modern-day confrontation with these pesky flying invaders presents a conundrum: what exactly constitutes “reasonable force” against a drone peeping down on someone’s patio party or poolside retreat? It’s unclear. The complexities of today’s technology mean that identifying whether a drone is an innocent toy, an eye in the sky for law enforcement, or perhaps, a spying tool for some nefarious entity is quite the challenge.
The federal government, never one to miss an opportunity to lag behind on technology issues, places the blame squarely on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). They’ve been working for what feels like an eternity on a “remote ID” system. This system, much like the IDs on commercial airplanes, would ensure any drone flying in the air is accounted for. Yet, taxpayers have seen little result, despite handing over endless piles of cash for this endeavor. So, while Florida tries to go it alone, citizens are left to wonder what exactly is buzzing overhead.
Currently, if a person decides to shoot down one of these buzzing intruders, they’re in for a legal showdown that makes the Wild West look tame. Firing at a drone, regardless of its purpose, is a federal crime. In fact, several unfortunate folks have found themselves behind bars for taking drone-vigilante justice into their own hands. Imagine trying to explain to a judge why you obliterated a Walmart delivery drone—you might find their sense of humor is even shorter than your patience with gadgets hovering over your azaleas.
The FAA staunchly maintains that shooting at any aircraft, including drones, is a significant safety hazard. Their reminder bears truth—what goes up must indeed come down. Falling drones pose as much danger as bullets fired into the sky, which have been known to injure people upon descent. However, despite the risks, property owners can’t be entirely faulted for wanting to protect their airspace. Perhaps a more creative solution is needed, like developing non-lethal ways to ground these aerial nuisances. Until then, Floridians—and drone owners everywhere—better watch the skies and the news for what unfolds next in this high-flying saga.
