Overview

This bill makes it a criminal offence to shine a laser beam at any moving or stationary vehicle (with its engine running) or at air traffic facilities/personnel, if it dazzles or distracts those in control. The bill specifies different penalties depending on the mode of conviction and the location.

Description

The Laser Misuse (Vehicles) Bill criminalizes the act of shining or directing a laser beam at a vehicle (including aircraft, vessels, hovercraft, and submarines) in motion or ready to move, or at an air traffic facility or personnel. The act is considered an offence if the beam dazzles or distracts, or is likely to dazzle or distract, the person controlling the vehicle or providing air traffic services. A defence exists if a reasonable excuse is provided or if the individual acted without intent and took all reasonable precautions to prevent the incident. Penalties vary considerably depending on the location and method of conviction, ranging from fines to up to five years imprisonment for indictment conviction.

Specifics:

• Vehicles: Includes land, water, and air vehicles; a stationary vehicle with a running engine is considered "ready to move."
• Air Traffic: Includes shining a laser beam at air traffic facilities or personnel.
• Penalties: Vary by jurisdiction (England & Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland) and conviction type (summary or indictment).
• Defences: Include reasonable excuse, lack of intent, and due diligence.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any increase or decrease in government spending. The potential costs would likely relate to law enforcement and prosecution of offenders.

Groups Affected

• Drivers/Pilots/Vessel Operators: Potentially increased safety due to the criminalization of laser misuse.
• Air Traffic Controllers: Improved safety and reduced risk of distraction.
• Individuals possessing lasers: Increased risk of prosecution if found guilty of misuse.
• Law Enforcement: Increased workload related to investigating and prosecuting offences.
• The Justice System: Increased caseload related to prosecution.

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