TRENTON, N.J. — A newly proposed bill in the New Jersey Assembly seeks to make operating a civilian drone equipped with a weapon a fourth-degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both.
Assembly Bill A2420, sponsored by Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-20) and Assemblyman Jay Webber (R-26), aims to address the potential dangers posed by weaponized drones, which lawmakers say could pose significant threats to public safety.
The legislation defines “anti-personnel devices” as firearms, prohibited weapons, or other projectiles designed to harm or incapacitate individuals. It applies exclusively to civilian drones owned or operated by private individuals or businesses, rather than government or law enforcement agencies.
Under the bill, any individual caught operating a drone outfitted with such devices would face criminal charges as outlined under New Jersey law. The measure explicitly targets the private use of unmanned aerial systems, which are increasingly used for recreational and commercial purposes.
The bill’s sponsors highlight the need to prevent the misuse of emerging drone technology in potentially harmful or criminal ways. If passed, the legislation would take effect immediately, signaling New Jersey’s commitment to regulating drone technology to ensure public safety.
The proposed law underscores growing concerns about the weaponization of drones and aims to curb their misuse before they present broader security risks.