((a)) ** .—** It shall be unlawful to cause the beam of a laser pointer to strike a vessel operating on the navigable waters of the United States.

((b)) ** .—** This section shall not apply to a member or element of the Department of Defense or Department of Homeland Security acting in an official capacity for the purpose of research, development, operations, testing, or training.

((c)) ** .—** In this section the term “laser pointer” means any device designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object.