The proposed bill, Substitute Bill No. 6861, aims to prohibit the intentional projection of lasers at aircraft or their flight paths, establishing a new legal framework to enhance aviation safety. The bill defines key terms such as "aircraft," "armed forces," "laser," and "police officer" by referencing existing statutes. It specifies that individuals who violate this prohibition will be guilty of a class A misdemeanor.
However, the bill includes an exception for members of the armed forces of the United States, members of the armed forces of the state, and police officers, allowing them to project lasers while performing their official duties. This legislation is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and introduces new legal language while not deleting any existing provisions from current law.