(a) Definition. For purposes of this section, “laser pointer” shall mean any hand-held device which emits a laser lighting bean that is designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item or object.
(b) Sale of laser pointers to minors prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation, except a parent or legal guardian, to sell, exchange, give or loan to any minor under the age of eighteen years any laser pointer.
(c) Use of laser pointers by minors prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen years to have in his or her possession any laser pointer unless the minor is under the direct supervision and control of the minor’s parent, legal guardian, or other adult authorized by the parent or legal guardian, or other adult authorized by the parent or legal guardian to exercise such supervision.
(d) Possession of laser pointers at movie theaters and public events prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person attending any movie theater or public event including, but not limited to, any sporting event to have in his or her possession any laser pointer.
(e) Directing laser beam into a moving vehicle or onto another person prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to direct intentionally the beam from a laser pointer into a moving vehicle or onto another person without such person’s prior knowledge and consent.
(f) Disclaimer. In regulating the sale, possession and use of laser pointers, the municipality is assuming an undertaking only to promote the general welfare. It is not assuming, nor it is imposing on its officers and employees, an obligation for breach of which it is liable in money damages to any person who claims that such breach proximately caused injury.
(g) Penalty. Whoever violates any of the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree and shall be subject to the penalty provided in Section 698.02.
(Ord. 298-00. Passed 1-8-01.)