S 2040 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Establishes penalties for use of unmanned aircraft in furtherance of commission of criminal offense; requires forfeiture of device upon conviction.

This bill (S 2040) creates new criminal penalties for operating drones (unmanned aircraft systems) to assist in committing other offenses. It makes it a crime to use a drone to further a petty disorderly persons offense (4th degree) or any other crime (graded one level higher than the underlying offense). Key provisions include penalties for drones interfering with first responders, operating near correctional facilities without permission, taking wildlife, or violating restraining orders. Upon conviction, the drone, controller, or associated digital device must be forfeited to law enforcement. The bill directly affects anyone using drones to commit or aid in crimes, with specific penalties based on the type of offense involved.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Vince Polistina
Vince Polistina
RRepublican
NJ
2