BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK\/KBFX) \u2014 The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is highlighting a series of new public safety laws set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, following their passage in the 2024 legislative session and subsequent signing by Gov. Gavin Newsom. <\/p>\n
Assembly Bill 486, introduced by Assemblyman Lackey, makes it a misdemeanor to possess certain burglary tools, such as key programming devices, with the intent to commit burglary. Violators could face up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.In the realm of electric bicycle safety, Assembly Bill 544, authored by Assemblywoman Davies, mandates that electric bicycles must have a red reflector or light on the rear at all times. Additionally, minors cited for helmet violations can fulfill safety course requirements through a CHP-developed online program.Senate Bill 586, introduced by Sen. Jones, defines “off-highway electric motorcycles” and subjects them to the same regulations as other off-highway vehicles, including helmet requirements and identification display.Pedestrian safety is addressed in Assembly Bill 382, introduced by Assemblyman Berman, which allows local authorities to reduce school zone speed limits from 25 to 20 miles per hour until January 1, 2031. After this date, the lower limit will become automatic with proper signage.Speed enforcement measures include Assembly Bill 289 by Assemblyman Haney, which authorizes a pilot program for work zone speed safety systems using radar or laser technology. Assembly Bill 390 by Assemblyman Wilson expands the “slow down and move over” law to include highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights.Assembly Bill 1014, introduced by Assemblyman Rogers, permits the Department of Transportation to lower speed limits by five miles per hour on highways, with a 30-day warning citation period.Vehicle storage regulations are updated with Assembly Bill 875 by Assemblyman Muratsuchi, allowing peace officers to impound certain electric vehicles for at least 48 hours under specific conditions.Senate Bill 1271, introduced by Sen. Min, sets safety standards for electric bicycles, powered mobility devices, and related batteries, requiring testing and labeling to ensure compliance and reduce risks.Assembly Bill 1777 by Assemblyman Ting establishes new requirements for autonomous vehicles, including communication devices for first responders, effective July 1, 2026, pending DMV regulation adoption.Comment with Bubbles<\/p>\n
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