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PCC parking lots, structures and driveways will not be immune to the new law requiring California drivers to use hands-free headsets while operating a vehicle. The law, which went into effect on July 1, also prohibits minors from using any type of wireless devices while driving, except in emergency situations.

While the law will be enforced in all driving areas on campus, Lt. Brad Young of the PCC Police Department said parking lot cadets cannot and will not be enforcing the law.

When asked if the PCC board had made an official request for a crackdown on campus, Lt. Young answered with an emphatic, “Absolutely not. Not a word.”

Students should know that Senate Bill 1613 prohibits drivers (not passengers) from using hand-held cell phones on California’s roadways.

Hands-free devices such as bluetooth headsets will still be allowed. Push-to-Talk features will not be exceptions.

The new law imposes a fine of $20 for a first offense and $50 for each additional offense.

The violation is a reportable offense and will go on drivers’ DMV record, however, DMV will not assign a violation point. Police officers are allowed to pull over drivers solely for this offense.

There are a few exceptions to the law.

The law allows a driver to use a wireless telephone to make emergency calls to a law enforcement agency, a medical provider, or the fire department.

The new law also permits the use of a speakerphone and dialing is permitted as well.

While the law does not specifically prohibit texting, the DMV is quick to assert that officers can still issue a citation if, in the officer’s opinion, the driver was distracted and was not operating the vehicle safely.

The only way to be completely safe from a citation, according to Lt. Young, is to, “Have your earpiece on before starting your vehicle. That’s the only sure way.

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