Law Enforcement Drones In Massachusetts

State lawmakers are considering how drones might be regulated in Massachusetts should they become law enforcement tools in the future.

A bill signed by state Sen. Robert Hedlund, a Weymouth Republican, would require authorities to obtain a warrant before a drone may be deployed.

Information collected by a drone could only be used in connection with the case named in the warrant, and the bill would strictly prohibit spying on the political or religious views of groups or individuals.

Outside of law enforcement, a drone could only be used in an emergency situation when a person's life or safety was in danger.

The measure is scheduled for a hearing before the Legislature's transportation committee.

[Associated Press]