SB 136 New Mexico Senate · 2026 Regular Session

UNLAWFUL USE OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT

SB 136 makes it illegal to use drones to secretly capture images of people, private property, or critical infrastructure without permission for surveillance purposes. It creates two offenses: a misdemeanor for general unauthorized drone surveillance, and a felony for drone operations near critical infrastructure (like power plants, water facilities, or government buildings) that disrupt operations or cause contact. Exceptions include drone use with consent, by government agencies, for research, by licensed surveyors, or for insurance purposes. The law aims to prevent privacy violations and security threats while allowing legitimate drone activities under specific conditions.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 26, 2026 Last action Mar 24, 2026
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Jan 26, 2026
Introduced
Sent to Senate Committees' Committee & Senate Judiciary Committee & Senate Finance Committee
upper
3 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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