# The new year has brought new laws, particularly from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
The most anticipated law, SB 1613–due to take effect July 1, 2008–prohibits drivers from using wireless telephones without a hands-free device while driving. In addition, motorists under the age of 18 won’t be allowed to use a cell phone even with a hands-free device.
“Driver safety and consumer protection are very important to our 24 million licensed drivers and identification card customers,” said DMV Director George Valverde in a press release.
The following is a summary of some new laws that will take effect Jan. 1, 2008.
Bicycle safety: A person operating a bicycle during darkness is required to utilize illumination devices upon a highway, a sidewalk, or a bikeway.
License plate coating: The use of a product that would impair the reading or recognition of a license plate by an electric device is prohibited.
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Minor passengers smoking ban: This law prohibits anyone from smoking in a vehicle where minors are present, regardless if the vehicle is in motion or at rest.
To check out these new laws yourself, log on to the DMV website a www.dmv.ca.gov.
In non-DMV news, one of the biggest new laws to take effect with the new year is a hike in the state’s minimum wage. It’s up 50 cents, to $8 per hour, which ties California for the second-highest in the nation.
This article appears in Jan 2-9, 2008.