In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation to provide that an individual commits an offense if the individual maliciously aims the beam of a laser pointer or other bright light at an aircraft in this Commonwealth.  As a pilot, I am aware of the serious threat that laser pointers pose to fellow aviators.  The beam of a laser can distract and temporarily blind pilots, thereby compromising their ability to safely operate the aircraft.  This distraction and temporary visual impairment can markedly increase the risk of flight accidents, particularly during the critical phases of flight. 
 
In its most recent report, the Federal Aviation Administration noted that it received a record high 13,304 reports involving lasers being pointed at aircraft across the United States in 2023.  This figure represented a 57% increase in such incidents since 2018.  While the individuals responsible for knowingly aiming lasers at aircraft may be subject to criminal penalties under Federal law, there is no crime that explicitly prohibits a person from committing this reckless and highly dangerous act in this Commonwealth. 
 
Knowingly aiming a laser or other bright light at a plane not only endangers the occupants of the aircraft, but also the people on the ground.  The act is grossly irresponsible and any person who is willing to endanger human life with such reckless disregard should be subject to criminal penalties under our laws.  To prevent an avoidable catastrophe, please join me in co-sponsoring this important piece of legislation to better protect our Commonwealth.