B12EE85D7BBD46888725895700750952 Hearing Summary

Senators Gardner and Ginal, co-prime sponsors, presented Senate Bill 23-095, concerning criminalizing unlawfully pointing a laser device at an aircraft.  They discussed federal law prohibiting laser pointing at aircraft and presented reasons for a state law.

Committee members asked questions about the federal law.  Additional questions were raised about creating a new crime. 

Captain Bobby Juchem, representing Colorado State Patrol, testified in support of the bill. He discussed air traffic safety. 

Kelly Sloan representing CEO of Sloan & Associates, testified in support of the measure.

Committee members asked questions about similar laws in other states.  Further inquiries were made about current practices and what happens when an individual is caught pointing a laser at an aircraft.  Discussion followed about the benefits of  involving local law enforcement and the frequency of cases in Colorado. 

Kathleen Mayer, representing Flight For Life Colorado, testified in support of the bill.  She provided examples of laser incidents on Flight for Life flights. 

Mr Christopher Howes, representing Emergency Medical Services Association of Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Committee discussion ensued about  federal reporting requirements. 

Mr. Doug Flanders, representing Air Methods Corporation, testified in support of the bill.  He discussed related optical injuries from laser pointing at aircrafts. 

Senators Gardner and Ginal made closing comments.

Committee members made closing comments.