He is in support of the efficiency of just making lazing an aircraft a crime, regardless of the harm any particular incident may do, because of the terrible potential consequences of the action (the current law).
Pretty much my thought.
If nothing else, with a little 1-5mW unit, even a helo isn't likely to know they're being lazed.
Most of these incidents have been with higher power units, like the one I pointed out. The concern isn't just eye damage, but blinding/dazzling the pilot long enough to cause an incident. Thus the rule.
For those arguing that 'little' lasers should be exempted, well, I haven't heard about BB/airsoft guns being exempted from charges if they go pointing them at somebody.
Gunsmith, the range for doing stuff like lighting a match with it generally depends more on how steady you are more than distance dispersion. Though popping a car tire is unlikely, as we're talking about thick rubber in that case.
Typhoon - given the large bail amount, I'm curious as to more of the details(like what power was the laser?) myself.