HB345 Alabama 2024 Session

Updated Feb 23, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Matt SimpsonRepresentative
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2024
Title: Crimes and offenses; operation of unmanned aircraft system over or near a Department of Corrections facility; penalties provided; exceptions provided
Summary: HB345 creates rules and penalties for operating drones near Alabama Department of Corrections facilities, including prohibiting surveillance or delivery of contraband, with exceptions, enforcement, and civil forfeiture.
What This Bill Does
It makes it illegal to operate a drone within a defined area around a DOC facility, or to surveil, photograph, or record the facility, and to introduce contraband via a drone. There are exceptions for certain groups and circumstances with written permission. Violations are Class C felonies with at least a $2,500 fine and a mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail, and the drone and any attached contraband can be seized and forfeited. The Department of Corrections would set necessary regulations, and the law takes effect on June 1, 2024.

Who It Affects
People who fly or might fly drones near DOC facilities; they could face felony charges, fines, and jail time
The Alabama Department of Corrections, its contractors, and public safety or emergency responders who operate drones under allowed exemptions
Property and equipment around DOC facilities that could be targeted by drones, which may be seized and forfeited

Key Provisions
Prohibits operating a UAS within 500 feet horizontally or 200 feet vertically of a DOC facility, and prohibits surveillance/recording of a facility
Exceptions allow certain operators (ADC, federally regulated operators, U.S. Armed Forces, Alabama National Guard) and others with prior written permission from the DOC Commissioner
Penalties include a Class C felony, minimum $2,500 fine, and mandatory at least 30 days of imprisonment in DOC or county jail
Allows civil forfeiture of the drone and any attached or dropped contraband, with procedures tied to established forfeiture rules
The DOC would adopt regulations to implement the act; the act becomes effective June 1, 2024

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Crimes & Offenses