Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits the use of drones near a ticketed event, with exceptions, in Alabama.

Highlights:

• Defines ticketed entertainment events as any music, sporting or performing arts event held in a location with gated barriers that prevent entry to the general public (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits the operation of an unmanned aircraft system within 400 feet of or above a ticketed entertainment event (Sec. 1).

• Establishes a $500 fine for violation of this Act and classifies a second violation as a Class A misdemeanor (Sec. 1).

• Establishes the following exceptions to this Act (Sec. 1):

• The operator has obtained consent from any person with legal authority over the event;

• The operator is authorized to operate an unmanned aircraft system and is operating within federal regulations;

• The operator is an employee of the event’s property and is conducting official business;

• The operator is an employee of a utility provider and is conducting official business;

• The operator is an owner of private property operating an owned system for purposes that do not interfere with the event;

• The operator is an employee or volunteer of with a state or local government agency conducting official business; or

• The ticketed event is a middle or high school sports event.

• Specifies that this Act takes effect October 1, 2026 (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text