PA HB2231

Intentionally or knowingly aiming a laser pointer or light-emitting device at an occupied aircraft would be a first-degree misdemeanor under new § 5518 of Title 18

The offense requires the person to know or recklessly disregard that the aircraft is occupied

Defenses include: authorized research/flight test personnel, law enforcement acting officially for research or training purposes, and individuals using laser emergency signaling devices for distress signals

"Light-emitting device" is defined as any device emitting light intense enough to impair an aircraft operator's ability to control the aircraft

The act takes effect 60 days after enactment