SB 23-095

Senate Bill 23-095 makes it a felony crime to aim a laser pointer at an airplane that has people on board, which can be reported by the pilot or crew. This law doesn't apply if you're using a laser for a legitimate reason, like astronomy or construction work. The bill was signed into law and will take effect on July 1, 2023, meaning it will become enforceable starting that date.

Official Summary

The act creates the offense of unlawfully aiming a laser device at an aircraft (offense), which is a class 6 felony. A person commits the offense when the person knowingly points, focuses, or aims a laser device at an aircraft while the aircraft is occupied and the incident is reported to law enforcement by the pilot or crew member of the impacted aircraft. The act provides exemptions for a person who points a laser device at an aircraft under certain circumstances. APPROVED by Governor March 23, 2023 EFFECTIVE July 1, 2023 (Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

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