Knowingly pointing a laser at an aircraft could result in a prison sentence.
Signed May 12 by Gov. Tim Pawlenty, a new law would make the action a gross misdemeanor in Minnesota, punishable by up to a year in prison and a $3,000 fine. It takes effect Aug. 1, 2009.
Federal law is designed to secure larger air carriers, leaving a loophole and forcing states or local municipalities to prohibit discharging a laser into the cockpit of an aircraft.
Jim Englin, a state patrol pilot, told at least two House committees that patrol pilots suffered three laser illumination events in 2008. Arrests were made in two cases, but charges were never brought forth.
When the laser hits an aircraft windshield, it turns the plexiglass opaque, blinding the pilot. Englin said it is like a bright flash bulb going off directly in your eyes.
Lasers that run on AAA batteries can be purchased at many office supply stores or big box retailers. Some have a range of up to 10 miles.
The law exempts search and rescue situations when the person on the ground is indicating their location.
Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL-South St. Paul) and Senate President James Metzen (DFL-South St. Paul) sponsor the law.
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