Supporters of the bill say it would establish some of the nation's strictest standards. Those would include a requirement for law enforcement agencies to get warrants except in certain emergencies.
Agencies would also be required to notify the public when they intended to use drones and the data collected by unmanned aircraft would be destroyed within six months. It would also be illegal for public entities to arm their drones.
The bill has bipartisan support, though it is opposed by several California law enforcement organizations, who prefer the same rules that currently apply to manned aircraft.
They object to destroying the data after six months, noting that investigations often take longer than that. The measure moves next to the state Senate.
Capitol Coverage
Consumer Advocates Say Read Fine Print Of On-Line Contracts
Monday, April 21, 2014Before signing an on-line agreement with or liking a company on Facebook, consumer advocates are warning customers they should read all the way to the bottom of the contract.
California Job Market Continues Its Zigzagging Recovery
Friday, April 18, 2014The California job market is turning into a real roller coaster. New numbers out today show a disappointingly small gain in March after February posted the strongest month of job creation in years.
Spring Rain And Snow Bring Increased Water Allocations
Friday, April 18, 2014Rain and snow may not have pushed California out of its drought, but the late season precipitation will mean a little more water for State Water Project users. There is also relief for some federal Central Valley Project users.
Legislation Would Protect Communities From Oil Train Accidents
Thursday, April 17, 2014Railroads plan to increase their shipments of crude oil by train throughout California. One lawmaker wants to make sure emergency planners can protect communities from potential train accidents.
Decision On Gray Wolf Protections Delayed
Thursday, April 17, 2014A state board postponed a vote Wednesday that could potentially put the gray wolves on the endangered species in California.