Norma Torres in Slate.com


On Technology: Require search warrants for police use of drones

AB1327: This bill would generally prohibit public agencies from using unmanned aircraft systems, including when the purpose is unrelated to the gathering of criminal intelligence.

Analysis by Slate.com: AB 1327 requires law enforcement drone-users to get a warrant. A warrant requirement does not prevent police from using drones; it checks the scope of drone surveillance by involving legal standards and a judge. California's drone bill includes exceptions for emergency situations, search-and-rescue efforts, traffic first responders, and inspection of wildfires.

Veto message : There are undoubtedly circumstances where a warrant is appropriate. The bill's exceptions, however, appear to be too narrow and could impose requirements beyond what is required by either the 4th Amendment or the California Constitution.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 22-8-10 on Aug/26/14; State Sen. Torres voted YES; Passed Assembly 68-4-7 on Aug/27; Vetoed on Sep/28.

Source: Slate.com blog analysis of voting record AB1327 Aug 26, 2014

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