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
Gift Ban Proposed for California Lawmakers
Thursday, March 06, 2014Citing the need to restore public trust in the California legislature, Senate Democrats today announced new legislation meant to reduce the influence of lobbyists at the Capitol.
Unfunded Liability For Retiree Health Care Grows
Thursday, March 06, 2014The present cost of health and dental benefits expected to be paid to future and current California retirees is growing. It’s now $64 billion.
California Lawmaker Wants a Non-Partisan Secretary of State's Office
Thursday, March 06, 2014The California Secretary of State’s office would become non-partisan under a state lawmaker’s proposed constitutional amendment
More Money For Storage Projects Added to Calif. Water Bond Proposal
Wednesday, March 05, 2014There’s a bit more progress in the delicate dance of reaching a deal on a new California water bond proposal that would replace the $11 billion bond currently on the November ballot. But a deal – if any – is still months away.
Brown, Netanyahu To Sign Pro-Business Agreement
Wednesday, March 05, 2014(AP) -- Gov. Jerry Brown will meet Wednesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is visiting the Silicon Valley to meet with high-tech leaders.