STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – Republican State Representative David Marshall today announced that HB2733, legislation he sponsored, was signed into law, giving law enforcement officers the legal protection they need to take down drones suspected of aiding criminal activity within 15 miles of Arizona’s international border.
The new law grants qualified immunity to peace officers who disable unmanned aircraft when they have reasonable suspicion that the drone is being used to commit or support organized crime, drug trafficking, fraud, or terrorism. The bill passed the Legislature with strong bipartisan support.
“These drones are being weaponized by cartels and traffickers to exploit our border,” said Representative Marshall, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Safety & Law Enforcement. “They’re scouting our law enforcement positions, smuggling drugs like fentanyl, and coordinating criminal operations in real time. Officers shouldn’t have to face lawsuits just for doing their jobs and stopping these threats. HB2733 affirms that Arizona stands with law enforcement, not with the cartels.”
Under existing law, officers lacked clear legal protection when disabling a drone, even in defense of public safety. HB2733 ensures that peace officers acting on reasonable suspicion in the designated border zone can act decisively without fear of civil liability from drone operators or their enablers.
The measure is part of the House Republican Majority Plan to promote public safety, protect individual liberties, and preserve the American Dream by keeping Arizona’s communities safe and secure. That includes securing the border, pushing back against drug cartels, and giving law enforcement the tools and protections they need to do their jobs effectively.
“Arizona Republicans are standing with law enforcement in the fight against fentanyl and securing our border,” Representative Marshall added. “With this law, our officers can act quickly and decisively to stop cartel operations without worrying about legal blowback.”
