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Nebraska2026Did Not Pass

LB1020

Nebraska Law on Tracking Devices, Stalking, and Drones

Last scannedAug 25, 2026, 3:18 AM

In one sentence

This law makes it illegal to use mobile tracking devices without consent, creates a new crime for swatting with restitution requirements, updates stalking definitions and penalties, bans drones in restricted areas, and changes probation rules for Class IV felonies.

What it does

  • Prohibits installing or using mobile tracking devices on people or property without the owner's consent.
  • Requires removing a tracking device if the person who gave consent revokes it.
  • Creates the offense of swatting and requires those convicted to pay restitution.
  • Bans flying unmanned aircraft systems in restricted areas and requires operators to show certificates when asked by law enforcement.
  • Updates definitions for harassment, stalking, and course of conduct.
  • Changes penalties for stalking offenses.
  • Eliminates the requirement that courts must impose probation for Class IV felonies.

Who it affects

  • People who install or use mobile tracking devices on others without permission
  • Parents and legal guardians using trackers for minor children under specific custody conditions
  • Caregivers of vulnerable adults or senior adults with physician certification
  • Private investigators operating within strict rules regarding consent and purpose
  • Businesses and government entities using trackers for legitimate purposes in good faith
  • Operators of unmanned aircraft systems (drones)
  • Courts handling Class IV felony cases

Limits and unknowns

  • The law does not apply to tracking devices used by parents for minor children if specific custody and consent rules are met.
  • Caregivers may use trackers on vulnerable adults only if a treating physician certifies it is necessary for safety.
  • Private investigators can use trackers only with property owner consent, for specific legal purposes like finding fugitives or stolen goods, and not when the client has a protection order against them.
  • Businesses and government agencies may use trackers in good faith for legitimate purposes, but this exception does not apply to private investigators unless they meet strict rules.

Plain language

Terms to know

Mobile tracking device
A tool used to track the position or movement of a person or property, as defined in state law.
Swatting
An offense created by this bill that requires restitution for those who commit it.
Course of conduct
A pattern of actions over time showing a continuous purpose, such as following or contacting someone repeatedly.

Official record

Sources

Source attached

Official summary

Provide for and change offenses involving mobile tracking devices, stalking, unlawful intrusion, operation of unmanned aircraft systems, and swatting and eliminate the requirement that courts impose probation for Class IV felonies

Official activity

Bill history

  1. Indefinitely postponed