HB251

Regards drone use by law enforcement; aviation facilities

Final Passage·6/10/26

Ohio HB251 regulates drone use by law enforcement and adds aviation facilities to the Aeronautics Law.

Ohio HB251 amends the Aeronautics Law to establish requirements for law enforcement agencies using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). The bill mandates that law enforcement agencies document and retain flight data and surveillance data, which is considered a public record. It prohibits the use of armed drones and surveillance of private individuals without a warrant or consent. The bill also repeals existing sections and incorporates new provisions for drone use in specific circumstances, such as border patrol, environmental catastrophes, and crime scene photography.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Last
Passed both chambers · 5–1 · Jun 10
Current
Awaiting the Governor
Next
Signature or veto

Sponsors

0
6
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Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

89 Yea

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5 Nay

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Calendar

Jun 9

3:00 PM

Senate Armed Services, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety 5th Hearing, No Testimony

Jun 3

11:30 AM

Senate Rules and Reference 4th Hearing, Proponent/Opponent/Interested Party

History

Jun 10

House

Message Read

Jun 10

House

The question being, Shall the amendments be concurred in?

Jun 10

House

Concurred in Senate amendments