HB 251: Regards drone use by law enforcement; aviation facilities
HB 251 status: Introduced — Effective 10/6/26 (updated Oct 6, 2026).
What this bill does
Overall score
Bill summary
OfficialTo amend sections 4561.01 and 4561.11 and to enact sections 4561.60, 4561.61, 4561.62, 4561.63, and 4561.64 of the Revised Code to establish requirements related to the use of an unmanned aerial vehicle by law enforcement and to expressly incorporate additional aviation facilities into the Aeronautics Law....
Key analysis
Impact analysis
Environment
Benefits
- no material impact identified
Risks
- no material impact identified
Economy
Benefits
- potential for new standardized drone industry requirements
Risks
- potential compliance costs for law enforcement agencies
Society
Benefits
- establishes oversight for law enforcement drone usage
- potential for increased transparency in public surveillance
Risks
- risks of inadequate regulation failing to protect civil liberties
- potential for broad exemptions for law enforcement
How trustworthy & consequential it is
Source
OpenStates
Confidence
lowlow
Analysis status
OpenStates summary
Regulation of surveillance technology may contain gaps depending on specific statutory language.
Analysis is based on a limited abstract, not full bill text.
Where it stands
Introduced
CurrentEffective 10/6/26
Committee
UpcomingFloor
UpcomingGovernor
UpcomingEnacted
UpcomingHow it affects your district
Set your location
Add your district to see how this bill may affect your community and who to contact.
Take action
Contact your representatives
Let them know how you feel about this bill.
Share your view
Join the discussion and see what others are saying.
Track this bill
Stay updated on progress and changes.