TRENTON, N.J. — A new bill introduced in the New Jersey Assembly aims to impose strict restrictions on the operation of drones over school properties, addressing privacy and safety concerns while outlining penalties for unauthorized use.
Assembly Bill A4128, sponsored by Assemblymen David Bailey, Jr. (D-3), William B. Sampson, IV (D-31), and Michael Venezia (D-34), would make it a disorderly persons offense to knowingly operate a drone below 250 feet over a school without prior written authorization from the superintendent or chief school administrator.
The legislation specifically targets drone flights used to conduct surveillance or gather information over schools. It also criminalizes hovering drones over school buildings or grounds, as well as using school property as a takeoff or landing area for drones without authorization.
A violation of the bill’s provisions would carry penalties of up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Schools are defined in the bill as public or nonpublic elementary or secondary institutions offering education from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Exceptions are made for authorized drone operations by public employees, public entities, or first responders acting within the scope of their official duties, provided such operations comply with federal regulations.
If passed, the bill would take effect immediately, offering schools an additional layer of security while maintaining space for lawful and regulated drone usage.
The proposed law reflects growing concerns about drone privacy violations and aims to protect New Jersey schools from unauthorized aerial surveillance or disruption.