Cynthia Almond Bill Seeks to Ban Drones Near Alabama Schools

February 12, 2025 - MONTGOMERY, AL - In a move aimed at enhancing student and teacher safety, Representative Cynthia Almond (R-Tuscaloosa) has introduced a bill in the Alabama Legislature that would prohibit the operation of drones near public schools. The proposed legislation, known as House Bill 201, seeks to address growing concerns about unauthorized drone activity around educational institutions2.

Under the current law, drones are restricted from flying within 500 horizontal feet and 200 vertical feet of correctional facilities. House Bill 201 expands this prohibition to include public schools, making it illegal to operate an unmanned aircraft system within these specified distances without the consent of the school administrator2. The bill also includes provisions that would criminalize the use of drones to photograph or electronically record public schools without permission.

Representative Almond emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to regulating drone usage around schools. "We had a lot of excitement a few weeks ago with drones, weird drones, odd drones flying all sorts of places," she said1. "And we really, probably need to do a better job of having a more comprehensive way of dealing with it."

The bill outlines specific penalties for violations, with unauthorized drone operations near schools classified as Class C misdemeanors, while photographing or recording schools without consent would be considered Class A misdemeanors. These measures are intended to deter individuals from using drones in ways that could compromise the safety and privacy of students and staff.

While the bill has garnered support from educators and parents concerned about drone-related incidents, it has also faced criticism from drone operators and advocates of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Robin Schultz, owner of Bluff Park Drone in Hoover, AL, argued that the FAA has jurisdiction over airspace and that the bill may overstep state authority1. "Although the bill is well-intentioned, they are out of their jurisdiction," Schultz said.

Despite these concerns, Representative Almond has expressed a willingness to work closely with drone operators to find a balanced solution. "Whether it's through this bill, or through the schools, whether there needs to be a better process in place for doing that remains to be seen," she said1. "But, all that is up for discussion."

The Judiciary Committee is scheduled to review House Bill 201 this week, and its passage would mark a significant step toward regulating drone activity around schools in Alabama. If enacted, the bill would provide a clearer framework for managing drone usage and help ensure the safety and privacy of students and teachers.

As the debate continues, stakeholders on both sides of the issue will need to find common ground to address the legitimate concerns raised by the bill while respecting the rights of drone operators and the jurisdiction of federal authorities.