UNLAWFUL INTERFERENCE WITH AIRCRAFT

SB 103 makes it a crime to interfere with aircraft flight, specifically adding directing a laser at an aircraft to the list of prohibited acts. It directly affects individuals who point lasers at aircraft (e.g., from the ground), imposing penalties based on severity: a fourth-degree felony for first offenses, third-degree for repeat offenses or causing medical harm. The law amends New Mexico’s criminal code to define "laser" and sets sentencing requirements under existing felony statutes. This bill creates clear criminal penalties for actions that endanger aircraft operations, without changing other aspects of aviation safety law.