Assemblyman Dave Bailey, Jr. has introduced legislation restricting the usage of drones from hovering or surveilling on school grounds without the prior consent of school administrators.

Bill A4128 was introduced in response to an incident earlier this year at Elsinboro Township School in Salem County in which a drone equipped with photography equipment was discovered flying on the school’s property. The drone, which was later discovered to belong to a real estate company, proceeded to photograph several more area schools, drawing the attention of administrators and law enforcement.

“I am sponsoring this legislation because the safety of our children is of the utmost importance to me,” said Assemblyman Bailey. “What occurred at Elsinboro Township School was a serious security violation. When I learned about the incident from the Lower Alloways Creek Police Department, I couldn’t believe there weren’t already measures in place to limit the operation of drones around schools. There are many positive uses for drones, but we must prevent their misuse by bad actors, especially when it comes to protecting schools.”

“We extend our gratitude to Assemblyman Bailey for his proactive stance in introducing legislation aimed at restricting drone usage over schools, thereby bolstering student safety,” said Elsinboro Township School Superintendent Laural Kretzer. “A drone encroached upon our school premises during recess, hovering near classroom windows where students were engaged in their studies. Implementing measures to curb drone activities around educational institutions is indispensable for safeguarding student well-being and upholding a conducive and secure learning environment.”

Bill A4128 pertains to drones that are unauthorized and linger on school property under 250 feet, and bans takeoff and landing on school grounds. Flying over school property remains legal, and there are exceptions for drone use by government and law enforcement entities. Assemblywoman Heather Simmons is Co-Sponsoring the bill in the Assembly, and Senator John Burzichelli is sponsoring the bill’s Senate counterpart.