Use authorization of unmanned aerial vehicles for risk of fleeing suspect or actual fleeing suspect

This bill (SF 1665) amends Minnesota law to explicitly authorize law enforcement agencies to use unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) during the lawful pursuit of a suspect who is fleeing or at risk of fleeing. It adds this specific scenario as a permitted use under Minnesota Statutes § 626.19, subdivision 3, alongside existing authorized drone uses like emergency response, disaster recovery, and public safety events. The provision requires that drone use during suspect pursuits must align with lawful police procedures. This change directly affects police departments and their operational protocols when tracking fleeing individuals. The bill does not alter the legal standard for pursuing suspects but clarifies that drones may be used as a tool in such situations.