First Drone Legislation Bill in the NYS Assembly

This comes in from Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda 87th A.D. Bronx.

I just had my first piece of drone legislation published (#A06244); it focuses on limiting how law enforcement can utilize the technology to conduct surveillance.

I conducted a survey recently in my district to ascertain how the general public feels about drone activity. Most of the data suggests that the public is not fully aware of the technology and its implications, domestically. Only 18% of those surveyed knew what drones were. Though once they were informed, over 96% had concerns about their use, with a similar percentage feeling that drones could infringe on their privacy. Nearly 97% suggested that there be clear restrictions placed on drones.

This bill is the first of a series of comprehensive pieces of legislation initiated to address the lack of information on drones, and their attendant activities. Succeeding bills will focus on: Banning drones from being armed; clearly defining what constitutes a drone; restricting the use of drones by private citizens; and streamlining the mechanisms to secure permits for responsible drone usage concerning its commercial applications.

I have been at the forefront of pushing for more transparency and regulations concerning this phenomenon; assessing the trends, I feel it's incumbent upon the NYS Legislature to seize this issue before it takes on a life of its own. I don't want the technology to get ahead of the law, and hopefully, the legislation that I am putting forth, will be the catalyst for us as legislators to take hold of this issue.

 

Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda-87th District
1973 Westchester Ave
Phone: (718) 931-2620
Bronx, NY 10462

 

Bronx Democratic County Committee To Support Luis Sepulveda For New York State Assembly

April 23, 2012  

The Bronx Democratic County Committee

Announces its Support for Attorney Luis Sepulveda in his bid for the New York State Assembly

The Bronx Democratic County Committee will support Luis Sepulveda for the 87^th Assembly District. Sepulveda, a professor and attorney in the Bronx, has shown his commitment to Bronx residents through his outreach and pro bono efforts for the residents of Parkchester.  An experienced educator, Sepulveda is a professor at Mercy College, teaching law-related courses including Business Law and Constitutional Law.  He looks forward to being a strong advocate in Albany for enhanced public safety, education and access to better services for the residents of the 87^th District.

“Luis Sepulveda has demonstrated his commitment to the Bronx and the residents he intends to serve through his advocacy and persistent presence on issues that matter.  The Bronx Democratic Party welcomes him with open arms and we look forward to working strenuously to elect him” said Bronx Democratic Chairman Carl E. Heastie.

"I am humbled and honored to receive the endorsement of the Bronx Democratic County Committee," said Luis Sepulveda.  "The Democratic Party of the Bronx is the driving force behind progressive change in this City and State.  It is making a difference in the lives of the residents of the Bronx and the State; a movement of which I would be proud to be a part.”

"Luis Sepulveda has proven that he is a fighter for the people of the Bronx, and I am proud to support him in his quest to represent the 87th Assembly District. Luis has long been a friend and ally to me, and I know from my own experience that he will make us proud in Albany, just as he has through his years of service and advocacy for the people of the Bronx. I look forward to working to see him elected to the New York State Assembly, and to working with him on the many important issues that face our borough once he is elected," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

"I have been impressed by Luis' tenacity and dedication in fighting for the needs of our community," said Council Member Annabel Palma. "I have no doubts that, given the opportunity, Luis will carry on this fight in Albany." 

The Democratic primary election will be held in September.

****************************************************

Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda

  Now that Assemblyman Peter Rivera will join the Cuomo administration as of June 30th as the new Commissioner of the State Labor Department it could be smooth sailing for community leader Luis Sepulveda. In 2010 Sepulveda ran against entrenched incumbent Assemblyman Peter Rivera, and lost by only a few hundred votes garnering 44% of the vote in the Democratic primary. Sepulveda has opened an Headquarters at 1512 Castle Hill Avenue (pictured above), and started his campaign 2012 the day after his 2010 primary loss. Sepulveda has been in every part of the new 87th A.D. knocking on doors, talking to people, and offering free legal help when needed. His campaign is ready for the start of petitioning that will begin in June for state offices.

  Sepulveda is part of "Team Diaz 2012", That being Senator Rev. Ruben Diaz (32nd State Senate District), Assemblyman Marcos Crespo (85th Assembly District), and candidate Luis Sepulveda (87th Assembly District). 

Among his concerns are Public Safety, Education, Legal Services, and the Environment, to name only a few. Below is candidate Sepulveda with Senator Diaz, District Leader Julia Rodriguez, Ms. Mary Walsh of the Parkchester South Houses and many community members who protested that there is no elevator for handicapped people at the recently renovated Parchester # 6 line subway station. Sepulveda has begun legal action to have such mandated services be put at the subway station, and is in the process of getting 10,000 community signatures to go along with the action.

 You can go to www.Sepulveda2012.com or visit Luis Sepulveda on Facebook to learn more.


  ************************************************************