New Jersey Governor Chris Christie signed a law on his last day in office, making it illegal to fly an unmanned aerial system (UAS), or drone, while intoxicated. New Jersey's state assembly unanimously approved legislation last week but today's signing by Chris Christie has made it official - New Jersey is now the first state to ban drunk droning.
The law prohibits flying a drone with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher, the same as for driving a vehicle. Violators face up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine or both.
.The law also makes using a drone to “knowingly or intentionally” endanger someone’s life or property or to “take or assist in taking” wildlife illegal. People who use a drone to interfere with a first responder or endanger the security of a correctional facility could face up to 18 months in prison and up to $10,000 fine under this law.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, at least 38 states are considering similar drone restrictions this legislative year.