Drone legal battle in Michigan and helping hurricane victims in North Carolina
Keeping it Real with Dave Bondy, Thursday December 19, 2024
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Drone Regulations Under Fire: Legal Battle with the University of Michigan
Ryan LaTourette, a leading drone expert and advocate, is spearheading a legal challenge against the University of Michigan over its drone ordinances. LaTourette, who serves as the director of regulatory affairs for the Great Lakes Drone Company and co-founder of the Michigan Coalition of Drone Operators, argues that the university’s rules are in direct violation of state and federal law governing drone operations.
The University’s Drone Policy
The University of Michigan has implemented a detailed set of restrictions for drone use on its campus. These policies prohibit drone operations without specific exceptions. Similar rules are enforced at other Michigan universities, including Michigan State University and Wayne State University. According to LaTourette, these ordinances are illegal under Michigan law, specifically the 2016 legislation that prevents public entities like universities from creating their own drone regulations.
"The state law is clear," LaTourette said. "If you operate according to FAA rules, you can legally fly drones anywhere in Michigan. Universities don’t have the authority to override that."
Legal Context and Past Precedents
This isn’t the first legal challenge LaTourette’s coalition has brought against restrictive drone policies. In previous cases against Genesee and Ottawa counties, the coalition successfully argued that such local ordinances conflicted with state and federal regulations. Both cases resulted in favorable rulings, setting a precedent in Michigan’s Court of Appeals.
With these victories in hand, the coalition is now challenging the University of Michigan’s drone policies. The university, citing its constitutional autonomy, claims it has the right to implement such rules. "It’s a unique legal battle," LaTourette remarked, "because the university is claiming a level of autonomy akin to that of a sovereign entity."
The Current Status of the Case
The case was heard in court on December 17, coinciding with the 121st anniversary of the Wright brothers’ first flight. After a multi-hour hearing, the judge requested additional briefs from both parties, with a decision expected in January. The outcome could set a new precedent for how drone laws are applied across autonomous institutions like universities.
Broader Implications for Drone Operators
LaTourette’s fight against restrictive drone policies extends beyond university campuses. He highlighted the growing trend of public misinformation about drones, which often leads to unnecessary restrictions. "Drones have become the new UFO," he said, referring to how the public often misidentifies manned aircraft as drones, fueling hysteria and misplaced concerns.
LaTourette also pointed to incidents where legal drone operators have faced harassment. "It’s a confusing time for drone pilots," he noted, emphasizing the importance of public education about FAA regulations and responsible drone use.
Drones and the Future
The conversation with LaTourette also touched on the broader use of drones, from stunning light shows to potential applications like medical supply deliveries. While delivery by drone remains limited in scope, LaTourette predicts significant advancements in the next two decades.
As the legal battle with the University of Michigan continues, LaTourette hopes the outcome will affirm the rights of drone operators and provide clarity for drone regulations statewide. "If universities can enforce their own drone ordinances, it sets a dangerous precedent," he warned. "We need consistency in how these laws are applied."
For now, the drone community in Michigan awaits the January ruling, which could have far-reaching implications for drone operators and the regulatory landscape.
HELPING PEOPLE IMPACTED BY HURRICANE HELENE
I also talked to a woman in Kentucky who is helping those impacted by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. She explains how you can help them.