Who must a command obtain approval from before disposing of a laser?

The correct answer is that a command must obtain approval from BUMED, which stands for the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. This is because BUMED oversees medical resources and safety regulations, including those related to laser use and disposal in a military context. Lasers can pose significant health hazards, and BUMED provides the necessary guidelines and approval processes to ensure that any disposal aligns with safety and health standards.

In the context of managing lasers, BUMED's role is critical as it involves regulatory compliance, ensuring that the handling and disposal of such equipment do not compromise the health and safety of personnel or the environment. This oversight is vital, given the potential risks associated with laser equipment.

While other options pertain to different departments or approvals, they do not specifically address the health and medical safety aspects that BUMED oversees in relation to lasers. Therefore, obtaining approval from BUMED is essential for ensuring adherence to safety protocols concerning laser disposal.