New laws take effect January 1, 2008
1. REMINDER: Handheld Wireless Telephones. Senate Bill 1613 prohibits the use of handheld cellular phones while driving. Starting July 1, 2008, a driver may use a cell phone only if it has a hands-free listening and speaking system.
2. Teen Drivers and Cell-Phone Use. SB 33 prohibits any teens driving under the age of 18 from using any cell phone or other “mobile-service device” while driving.
3. License Plates. AB 801 makes it illegal to sell or use products that obstructs or impairs the recognition of a license plate by an electric device operated by police or toll authority.
4. Street Racing, Exhibitions of Speed. SB 67 reauthorizes a law that lapsed on December 31, 2006. It allows law enforcement officers to impound a vehicle for 30 days when a person is arrested for street racing, exhibition of speed, or reckless driving.
5. Smoking in Vehicles. SB 7 makes it infraction, punishable by a fine of up of $100, to smoke a cigarette, a cigar, or a pipe in a vehicle, whether in motion or not, in which there is a minor.
6. Traffic School. AB 645 prohibits a court from allowing a driver who commits a two-point violation from attending traffic school.
