Mackinac Island could enact rules to restrict the use of drones under legislation heading to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for her expected signature.
The Senate gave unanimous, final approval to the bill Tuesday. The measure stems from a task force that recommended protection for the island because of instances of drones startling horses that carry people and goods.
Cars are prohibited on the island, which is a northern Michigan tourist destination.
State law currently bans local governments from regulating the ownership or operation of drones. The legislation would make an exception for Mackinac Island but specify that drones could be allowed for certain purposes if they do not intentionally interfere with horses — such as newsgathering, insurance work, utility maintenance and law enforcement.
Online:
Senate Bill 129: http://bit.ly/31FtGrd
