Dear Neighbor,

Drone technology is advancing rapidly, and in 2026, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are more common and accessible than ever before. While drones bring innovation and opportunity, they also raise new concerns about privacy, property rights and public safety.

That’s why I support Michigan’s bipartisan drone package, including House Bill 5327 — legislation designed to modernize our laws, protect residents and ensure drones are used safely and responsibly.

This package strikes a careful balance: Instead of banning drones altogether, we are setting clear, reasonable rules to protect people and property while supporting legitimate and responsible drone use across our state.

House Bill 5327 strengthens protections by:

  • Protecting privacy and property rights by prohibiting intrusive drone operations over private dwellings that interfere with a resident’s quiet enjoyment of their home.

As drones become more widespread, it is our responsibility to ensure our laws reflect today’s technological realities, not yesterday’s assumptions.

The broader bipartisan drone package:

  • Establishes clearer protections for private property and critical infrastructure.
  • Strengthens safeguards around state facilities, public events and sensitive locations.
  • Enhances law enforcement’s ability to detect, deter and respond to dangerous or intrusive drone activity.
  • Implements tools such as geofencing, restricted-airspace protections and clearer operational standards for state-operated drones.
  • Prevents the use of drones to harass individuals, record them without consent or violate restraining orders, closing loopholes in existing surveillance laws.
  • Allows property owners recourse when drones trespass in ways that threaten safety or invade privacy.
  • Updates Michigan’s 2016 UAS Act to reflect modern drone capabilities and ensure laws governing trespass, privacy and surveillance keep pace with technology.

This is a balanced, 21st-century approach to drone policy. We trust legitimate drone operators — including commercial, agricultural, hobby and public safety users — and this legislation respects their important work. At the same time, we expect accountability when drones cross into private property or sensitive spaces without authorization.

By acting now, Michigan is staying ahead of emerging risks. We are protecting families, strengthening public safety, safeguarding infrastructure and ensuring residents have clear rights if their privacy is violated.

Technology should improve our lives — not intrude upon them. 

Sincerely,

 

Peter Herzberg

State Representative

25th House District