This Minnesota House bill (H.F. No. 1275) proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 626.19, subdivision 3, regarding the authorized use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by law enforcement agencies. Specifically, the bill adds a provision allowing UAV use when there is a risk of a fleeing suspect or during the lawful pursuit of a fleeing suspect.

The bill maintains other previously authorized uses of UAVs, including: - During emergencies involving the risk of death or bodily harm. - Over public events where there is a heightened security risk. - Counterterrorism efforts based on credible intelligence. - Preventing loss of life and property in disasters. - Conducting threat assessments for specific events. - Gathering evidence in public areas with reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. - Crash reconstruction after serious or deadly road collisions. - Public relations or officer training. - Non-law enforcement purposes at the written request of another government entity.

The bill aims to expand UAV usage for law enforcement, particularly in fleeing suspect scenarios, while keeping existing regulations intact.