Why the FAA's new drone rules fall short

Networkworld: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released rules governing the registration of drones yesterday that left me slack-jawed – first with disbelief, then with fear. The rules show that the FAA is oblivious to either the risks of drones or the technological measures that could mitigate the risks, or both.

The rules are simple and apply to drones that weigh between 0.55 pounds (250 grams) and less than 56 pounds (approximately 25 kilograms) including payloads. Beginning on December 21, drone owners must voluntarily register their drones with the FAA and pay a $5 fee, which will be waived for the first 30 days. Drone owners who fail to register face stiff penalties: a fine of up to $27,500 for civil violations, and a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years in prison for a criminal violation.

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