Bill
H 1585
MA bill adds penalties for directing lasers at aircraft and for UAV interference, aligns with FAA rules, with exceptions for approved research/defense ops and FAA-compliant use.
H.1585, introduced February 27, 2025, would add a new section (Section 20) to Chapter 269 of the General Laws to combat interference with aircraft through laser pointers and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The bill establishes penalties, defines key terms, and sets out limited exceptions for authorized operations conducted in compliance with federal aviation requirements. A hearing is scheduled for May 6, 2025 (A-2) in the Judiciary Committee.
1) Definitions
- Laser pointer: A device designed to amplify electromagnetic radiation to be used as a pointer/highlighter to indicate or identify a position or object.
- Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV): An aircraft operated without direct human intervention on board.
2) Prohibited conduct and penalties
- Minor interference: knowingly aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft or at its flight path, or operating a UAV in the flight path or otherwise interfering with an aircraft in flight within Massachusetts, is guilty of “interfering with an aircraft” and punishable by a fine of up to $1,500.
- Significant disruption: knowingly directing a laser at an aircraft or operating a UAV in its flight path that causes a significant change of course or other serious disruption threatening passenger or crew safety is punishable by a fine up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both.
- The penalties apply to acts “in the special jurisdiction of the United States, or at the flight path of such an aircraft, or over the Commonwealth.”
3) Exceptions (defenses/allowed uses)
- Research and development or flight test operations conducted by:
- An aircraft manufacturer, the FAA, or other FAA-authorized entities.
- U.S. Department of Defense or Homeland Security in official capacity (research, development, operations, testing, or training).
- Use of a laser emergency signaling device for emergency distress signaling.
- Laser operations submitted to the FAA for review and conforming to an FAA-issued letter of no objection.
4) UAV operations
- UAV use must comply with all FAA requirements and guidelines.
- Use by authorized persons consistent with FAA rules is not prohibited.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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