91st General Assembly · Funnel one-pager · Monday, November 9, 2026

SSB 1191: Prohibiting the use of remotely piloted aircraft flying over farm property, and making penalties applicable

Became SF 491 · Its progress continues under the new number.

What it does

2024 Iowa Acts, chapter 1131, prohibited the use of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) flying over certain areas, including a homestead or that part of a farmstead where agricultural animals are confined and maintained (Code chapter 715E). An RPA is a self-propelled vehicle used for navigation and flight, is controlled by the use of an electronic system, and is not designed to carry a human. A surveillance device that is part of an RPA refers to a camera or electronic equipment that transmits or records images, sounds, or data from a distance.

Cost

See the fiscal note

The fiscal impact cannot be determined but is anticipated to be minimal. Figure 2 shows the average State cost per offense for a serious misdemeanor and aggravated misdemeanor. The estimated impact to the General Fund includes operating costs incurred by the J…

Senate subcommittee · named February 26, 2025

Sen. Dan Zumbach (R) · dan.zumbach@legis.iowa.gov
Sen. Ken Rozenboom (R) · ken.rozenboom@legis.iowa.gov
Sen. Thomas Townsend (D) · thomas.townsend@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 5 for, 3 against

For: Iowa Cattlemen's Association; Iowa Corn Growers Association; Iowa Farm Bureau Federation; Iowa Pork Producers Association; VALOR Iowa

Against: Animal Legal Defense Fund; Food & Water Watch; Iowa Chapter of Sierra Club

In plain words

February 26, 2025Filed in the Senate and sent to the Transportation committee
February 26, 2025Senate subcommittee named: Zumbach, Rozenboom and Townsend
March 3, 2025Subcommittee recommended passing it
March 3, 2025Approved by the Senate committee, and given a new number: SF 491