Committee backs misdemeanor ban on drones over ticketed events after NASCAR testimony

The Judiciary Committee voted to return Senate Bill 11‑60 with a due‑pass recommendation after hearing that the measure would bar drone flights within one mile horizontally or vertically of ticketed entertainment events unless the operator is an event employee or has written permission.

The bill, described by staff as making the prohibited conduct a class 1 misdemeanor, drew a succinct endorsement from James Hamilton, who testified on behalf of NASCAR. "This bill addresses a concern we have for public safety as it relates to drones flying over sporting venues," Hamilton said, adding that drones over NASCAR events have posed "a public safety issue and safety hazard for our vans as well as our participants." He told the committee the measure mirrors protections present in federal law and would extend similar buffers to non‑federally sanctioned events.

Committee members asked procedural and sponsor‑related questions and received no public opposition. The committee chair moved the bill and the roll call produced six ayes, one nay and two absences, after which the chair stated, "You have given SB 11‑60 a new pass recommendation."

Why it matters: Sponsors and proponents framed SB 11‑60 as a narrow public‑safety bill to prevent unauthorized drones from operating near crowds and event infrastructure; supporters noted the measure aligns state protection with existing federal standards. The committee will advance the bill on the legislature’s calendar for further action.