A new proposal in the state Capitol would regulate the use of delivery drones in Wisconsin.
The legislation would set the rules so-called “personal delivery devices,” also called PDDs, must abide by on Wisconsin sidewalks.
PDDs are already being used for food delivery in Washington, D.C., California and Arkansas.
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“I believe it is our job as legislators to allow innovation and emerging technologies to prosper and to be welcome in our state,” said Rep. Mike Kuglitsch, R-New Berlin, during a public hearing on the bill Tuesday.
The bill would legalize delivery drones that weigh less than 80 pounds and travel no more than 10 miles per hour.
Supporters say the proposal would reduce delivery costs for consumers and empower entrepreneurs to use the new technology.
Sen. Chris Kapenga, R-Delafield, is the bill’s sponsor in the state Senate. He said regulating drones would assure Wisconsin businesses interested in using the technology that they’re operating legally.
“We want to make sure it’s clear for them and they’re comfortable coming in and testing this stuff so that they can better do business here,” Kapenga said.
The bill has yet to receive a vote in committee.
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