Idaho Drone Bill Could See Changes

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Legislation intended to protect Idahoans privacy by restricting how law enforcement uses drones is headed to the Senate for possible changes. The bill initially established clear legal guidelines when law enforcement could use unmanned aircraft in criminal investigations.

Its Republican sponsor Sen. Chuck Winder of Boise says amendments that could be coming in the Senate might add more flexibility for state and local police. After the Senate State Affairs Committee discussed the bill Friday, Winder said he would explore adding language to exempt restrictions on search and rescue teams and law enforcement during lawful searches.

The original version allowed police to use drones without warrants in marijuana eradication cases. Winder said the new language would allow unmanned aircraft to be used for other reasons, like hostage or school intruder emergencies.