FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A freshman lawmaker from North Dakota is one of numerous state legislators around the country proposing regulations that would limit the use of unmanned planes for law enforcement.
The issue was debated nationally after police used a drone to help arrest a Lakota farmer after a standoff with authorities.
Courts upheld use of the drone, but Republican state Rep. Rick Becker of Bismarck says there should be safeguards to make sure the practice isn't abused.
Lawmakers plan to introduce similar bills in several states, including California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Oregon, Missouri, Michigan and Indiana. The charge is mostly being led by Republicans, but some have bipartisan support.
Cass County Sheriff Paul Laney opposes the idea. He says a drone is no different than other types of surveillance.
