Suit Filed Over Local Laws

[tcope]

We really need to see more of this...

Ruling gives FAA more power over drones than local governments

"When it comes to drone regulations, the FAA's rules trump anything local governments conjure up. That's what a federal court in Massachusetts has proven when it ruled in favor of a commercial drone owner who sued the city of Newton over its drone ordinance. Newton resident Michael Singer filed the lawsuit in a bid to eliminate some of the city's rules that don't align with the FAA's, including having to register with every municipality it has to fly over and to maintain an altitude of 400 feet and above over private and Newton city property. Two of the rules he chose not to challenge prohibit operating drones in a reckless manner and the use of drones to spy on people."

 

[Steve7777]

We really need to see more of this...

Ruling gives FAA more power over drones than local governments

"When it comes to drone regulations, the FAA's rules trump anything local governments conjure up. That's what a federal court in Massachusetts has proven when it ruled in favor of a commercial drone owner who sued the city of Newton over its drone ordinance. Newton resident Michael Singer filed the lawsuit in a bid to eliminate some of the city's rules that don't align with the FAA's, including having to register with every municipality it has to fly over and to maintain an altitude of 400 feet and above over private and Newton city property. Two of the rules he chose not to challenge prohibit operating drones in a reckless manner and the use of drones to spy on people."

Maybe a big coincidence, but could the appellant, Michael Singer, possibly be member 'msinger' here?

 

[tcope]

Maybe a big coincidence, but could the appellant, Michael Singer, possibly be member 'msinger' here?

He's said no, in prior posts.

 

[Steve7777]

He's said no, in prior posts.

OK - thanks for clarifying that. (I missed the prior posts)

 

[tcope]

OK - thanks for clarifying that. (I missed the prior posts)

It was a _long_ time ago. I think Dr. Singer filed this suit some time ago and (again, I think) a judge recently ruled on it. I need to go back and look myself but I think this is a Federal Judge.

 

[tcope]

Sorry, US District Judge. So while I think this is local, case can be used but would need to file in other courts.

 

[Kcgunesq]

Sorry, US District Judge. So while I think this is local, case can be used but would need to file in other courts.

The decision is likely only binding within the same federal circuit. But other courts can look to it and follow it if they think the Singer court got it right.

The opinion is well reasoned and takes a position that most federal courts won't see as controversial.

While we may see some courts decline to follow Singer, I'd wager a fair amount that this decision will end up solidly within the majority of circuits.

 

[John Locke]

You can hear a recent interview with Singer HERE.