House Bill No. by Representative Deshotel amends R.S. 2:135.3 to enhance safety regulations for aerial applicators using publicly owned airports or landing fields in Louisiana. The bill mandates that these aerial applicators must operate federally compliant aircraft transponders and two-way radios when taking off or landing at public airports. This requirement aims to improve communication with airport traffic services and ensure public safety during operations. Additionally, the bill clarifies that political subdivisions cannot discriminate against licensed aerial applicators, provided they adhere to all relevant safety and operational regulations.

The legislation also stipulates that if an airport authority raises objections to an aerial applicator's use of its facilities, the Department of Agriculture and Forestry must inspect the site for harmful residues before, during, and after the application. If violations are found, the commissioner has the authority to suspend the aerial applicator from further use of the airport. Furthermore, the bill outlines that aerial applicators operating at non-towered airports must follow the Federal Aviation Administration's recommended traffic patterns unless specific safety or operational conditions necessitate deviations.

Statutes affected:
HB715 Original: 2:3(A)