Senate Bill 62 Summary

• Prohibits knowingly aiming a laser pointer beam at an aircraft in flight or its flight path, establishing this as a misdemeanor offense with a fine of up to $100 for first violation and up to $500 fine plus up to 6 months county jail for subsequent violations.

• Maintains existing prohibition against knowingly and maliciously projecting a laser at law enforcement officers without consent while acting within official duties, with same penalty structure ($100 first offense, up to $500 and 6 months jail for repeat offenses).

• Exempts authorized individuals conducting research, development, or flight test operations for aircraft manufacturers or the Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Defense and Homeland Security personnel acting in official capacity, and individuals using laser emergency signaling devices to send distress signals.

• Defines "laser" or "laser pointer" as any device projecting a beam of light through light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation designed to be used as a pointer or highlighter to indicate specific positions or objects.

• Effective date: November 1, 2015.