drones represent a potential hazard to other aircraft as well as people on the ground, which, like it or not, gives the FAA an interest in regulating their use.

drones represent a potential hazard to other aircraft as well as people on the ground, which, like it or not, gives the FAA an interest in regulating their use. I agree it seems arbitrary at first glance, but I think it's better to look at it the other way around: the FAA is essentially cutting hobbyists a break from what they would normally require of a drone operator.