California Law Changes for 2009

After the fun and celebration, also remember the start of 2009 means new laws take effect.

One of the major new laws is "no texting while driving". As indicated at www.dmv.ca.gov/ this new law makes it an infraction to write, send, or read text-based communication on an electronic wireless communication device, such as a cell phone, while driving. Violations are as follows: a $20 fine for the first offense, $50 for each subsequent offense.

In addition, be careful with drinking and driving. There is a change in the driving under the influence (DUI) law creates a new authority for DMV to administratively suspend the driver's license for one year under a zero tolerance standard. The new law authorizes law enforcement to issue a notice of suspension and impound the vehicle of a person who is driving with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01 percent or greater while on court-ordered post-DUI probation.

In 2009 smoking in your car will not be allowed if a minor is in the car. This includes smoking a pipe, cigar or cigarette.

Don't get caught off guard, visit the following sites for more new laws for 2009 including laws regarding pay rates and restaurants requirements.

http://www.calbizcentral.com/HRC/News/SpecialReports/december2008/Pages/2009NewLaws.aspx

http://dmv.ca.gov/pubs/newsrel/newsrel08/2008-37.htm

www.calchamber.com/Headlines/Pages/CalChamberReleasesListofNewLawsAffectingBusinessesin2009.aspx