Morrison to protect wildlife from unnecessary disturbances

SPRINGFIELD - Private drones flown over public parks, sports games and sensitive wildlife has created the need for regulation. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a measure to give local governments the authority to adopt reasonable rules for the airspace over their public park property.

"I am proud to represent a district with an abundance of parks and wildlife," said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). "This legislation, brought to me by the Cook County Forest Preserve and the Illinois Association of Park Districts, will secure the sanctity and longevity of beautiful outdoor spaces."

House Bill 4715 would allow local governments to adopt reasonable rules for use of the airspace over their public park property by private drones. This applies only to publicly owned property that is used for recreational or conservation purposes.

Morrison's measure also includes an exception for drones used by commercial users with connection to infrastructure such as railroads and utilities.

House Bill 4715 passed the Senate Executive Committee on Wednesday and moves to the full Senate for further consideration.