Please Oppose Remote ID for Model Aircraft Hobby ! (Score 1)

Wow ! I just saw this video mentioned on slashdot. I am blown away ! I am a community college instructor that employs drones and model aircraft as an important part of computer and electronics programs. This young man has brilliantly illustrated the fact that, if the proposed FAA remote ID rules for commercial remotely piloted aircraft, are also imposed on amateur built model aircraft, it will have a devastating effect on the use of model aircraft for education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs at all levels from elementary schools through universities. The proposed remote identification rules that, while they might be appropriate for heavy weight and long range remotely controlled commercial unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are completely unnecessary for model aircraft made of low density light weight materials and which are flown in close visual proximity to the pilot. There is absolutely no need to impose such extreme measures on a hobby that has had an excellent safety record for over 70 years. More injuries and property damage have resulted from wayward golf balls, than model aircraft accidents, yet nobody proposes registering golf equipment or imposing strict regulations on the location of golf courses and driving ranges, with intent of eventually phasing them out ! The model aircraft hobby brings fun and enjoyment to millions of people of all ages and backgrounds, including people who may not be able to enjoy many other sports because of disabilities. It provides an activity that brings families together in a healthy outdoor sport that combines artistic creativity, problem solving, technical design, aeronautical engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, electronic engineering, and mechanical engineering all in one amazing hobby. Yes, somebody could use a model aircraft to cause harm, just as they could use many other technologies for nefarious purposes. All such actions are already illegal as an attack on persons or property. Do we really believe that imposing such draconian rules on a hobby enjoyed by law abiding citizens would prevent someone intent on such a crime ? A person intent on evil would not comply with remote identification rules anyway. What are we going to do, blanket populated areas with scanning devices looking for flying objects that do not comply with such rules ? What will they do when they detect large birds like geese which weigh much more than most model aircraft ? Are we going to shoot down every eagle, hawk, goose, owl, and vulture that flies into such restricted air spaces ? The existing laws and rules for amateur build and manufactured hobby model aircraft are already more than sufficient. The FAA has recently imposed extensive new rules on this hobby such as registration of models greater than 250 grams (0.55 pounds), limiting flight to altitudes below 400 feet, and flying within line of sight of the pilot. It is not necessary to destroy a hobby beloved by millions to initiate a traffic control system for commercial remotely piloted aircraft. Even if you don't personally enjoy the model aircraft hobby please oppose the overreaching imposition these remote identification rules on the model aircraft hobby. Please submit your comments to the FAA and your representatives on the proposed remote identification rules (NPRM) before the end of this month so that perhaps your children or grandchildren might enjoy the happiness and freedom of flight provided by this safe and wonderful hobby.