NMB to discuss potential laser pointer ordinance

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - Following in the footsteps of its neighbors to the south, the City of North Myrtle Beach will begin discussions Monday on whether or not to enact a laser pointer ordinance.

City spokesman Pat Dowling says so far this year, the city has received upwards of 100 laser pointer complaints from visitors and residents. Dowling says the pointers have been nuisances everywhere from the beach to inside of hotel rooms.

While no vote on an ordinance will be made on Monday, one has been drafted for future consideration. The ordinance would ban the possession and selling of laser pointers to anyone under the age of 18.

The ordinance further reads it would become illegal to shine a laser at any moving vehicle, person or animal. Dowling says the city received several reports this year of people harassing sea turtle hatchlings with the strong lights.

Officials say the laser pointer issue will be among several discussion topics at the North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting Monday, starting at 7 p.m. at City Hall.

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