A new year begins today and with it a new set of laws goes into effect.
With more than 800 laws signed into legislation by Gov. Jerry Brown, this list is far from complete.
California’s new traffic laws reflect the rapid changes brought about by mobile technology. For instance, AB 1536 allows California drivers to use hands-free technology to talk and text while driving. To be compliant with this law, the driver must be using a device that not only allows voice-operated, hands-free operation, but is used in such a manner.
“The changes to California’s traffic safety laws are designed to protect the motoring public,” said California Highway Patrol Commissioner Joe Farrow in a statement.
Further evidencing the reach of mobile devices into everyday life, drivers can now use their smart phones or tablet computing devices to provide law enforcement officials with proof of insurance and registration.
Drivers suspected of being under the influence of drugs no longer have the option of submitting a urine sample to test for drugs. Their only option is to submit a blood sample.
Those who are not eligible for a Social Security number, but can provide proof that their presence in the United States is authorized by federal law, can now apply for a California driver license.
The way that secondhand dealers and pawnbrokers report their transactions is being modernized as well, courtesy AB 391.
Secondhand dealers and pawn brokers currently submit written reports of all transactions — including seller’s identifying information — to the state. Effective Jan. 1, reports are to be filed electronically. But how this will be done is not yet clear.
Velia Ramirez, manager at Valley Pawn, said communication from Sacramento about implementation has been lacking.
“We don’t have a bulletin,” she said, referring to instructions on how to file transaction reports electronically. She said the California Pawn Brokers Association is clarifying the matter in Sacramento. But, until it is clarified, her business will continue to file transaction reports the old fashioned way, in writing, Ramirez said.
Farm labor contractors that operate without a license can be charged with misdemeanors and face the possibility of fines and imprisonment. Effective Jan. 1, farm labor contractors that operate without a license can face fines of up to $50,000 in addition to the aforementioned penalties, courtesy AB 1675. Fines collected will be deposited in a fund that may be used to regulate farm labor contractors.
A human right to water is now in writing, in California, courtesy of AB 685. This bill declares that “every human being has the right to clean, affordable and accessible water for human consumption, cooking and sanitary purposes,” and directs state agencies to implement this new policy.
Staff Writer Antoine Abou-Diwan can be reached at 760-337-3454 or aabou-diwan@ivpressonline.com
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