The proposed bill, Substitute House Bill No. 6861, aims to prohibit the intentional projection of lasers at aircraft or their flight paths, establishing such actions as a class A misdemeanor. This classification carries penalties of up to $2,000 in fines, imprisonment for up to 364 days, or both. The bill defines a laser as any device that projects a beam of light through light amplification or emits light that mimics a laser's appearance. Notably, the legislation includes exemptions for members of the armed forces of the United States and the state, as well as police officers, when they are acting in the course of their official duties.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and introduces new legal language while deleting any conflicting provisions in current law. It is anticipated to have a minimal fiscal impact on the Judicial Department due to potential costs associated with probation and a possible revenue gain from fines imposed on violators. The bill received unanimous support from the Transportation Committee, reflecting a strong consensus on the need for enhanced safety measures regarding laser use in proximity to aircraft.