Should the use of airborne drones be banned in Tennessee? A freshman state lawmaker thinks they should be, but law enforcement officials are not so keen on the idea.
As The Associated Press reported this week, state Rep. Micah Van Huss, R-Jonesborough, is sponsoring the “Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance Act,” which would prohibit law enforcement agencies from using drones to gather evidence. There are exceptions to the bill, however, such as officials using the unmanned aircraft to combat terrorism — but only if a judge signs a search warrant authorizing the use of a drone, or if officials are certain there is an imminent danger.
The legislation also says any evidence collected in clear violation of the drone measure is prohibited from being used in criminal cases.
The AP reported in a story that appeared in this newspaper Thursday: “Few law enforcement agencies in the state actually possess or use the technology, although agencies have argued that drones can be a useful and cost-effective alternative when using personnel would be dangerous or timely.”
While the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation contracted for the use of drones for two missing persons cases, the state does not currently own a remote-controlled airplane. Even so, TBI spokeswoman Kristin Helm said her agency wants “there to be more exceptions for law enforcement” in the drone bill.
You can “Sound off” on this topic by sharing your thoughts on drones with us.
Send your comments to Mailbag, P.O. Box 1717 Johnson City, TN 37605-1717, or mailbag@johnsoncitypress.com. Please include your name, telephone number and address for verification.
We will print your responses on the Opinion pages in the coming weeks.
S4LK1N writes:
March 22, 2013
1:57 PM
Drones flying in US skies you ask?
Answer: treason! Our founding fathers would be rolling over in their graves at this news.
CDH12 writes:
March 22, 2013
7:34 PM
On your little poll question, the title asks if drones should be used, the body asks should they be banned... which are you asking?
SovereignAxe writes:
March 23, 2013
1:50 PM
I picked only in certain circumstances, and I'd like to clarify that.
I don't mind weaponless drones, as they're really no different than what LE could do and currently do with a helicopter or airplane and infrared cameras. However, the drone could theoretically save taxpayers some money, as they're much cheaper to fly.
Drones capable of mounting weapons on them is where I draw the line, though.
TTT69 writes:
March 23, 2013
7:56 PM
After Mr. Obama refused to say he would not use drones to kill American Citisens on U.S. soil I feel they should be banned anywhere in the United States. What ever the action of our people, they still should be tried and convicted before being punished or attacked. The reason I say ban all drones in the U.S. is because I would hate to hear, " Oops, we accidently sent up an armed drone. The killing of U. S. citizens was a mistake. Our bad." How many U.S. troops have been killed because of a mistake or friendly fire. Finally, if drones are here for one purpose, they could and would be used for others. I fear for our country more and more every day. I pray we stay united but so many seem to be tring to tear it apart.
provided.