SALEM, Ore. -- New laws that took effect Friday in Oregon created new restrictions and also opportunities for individuals and businesses.
One of the most sweeping new statutes is the ban on talking on hand-held cell phones while driving. House Bill 2377 prohibits all drivers from using a "text messaging device or a wireless, two way communication device designed to receive and transmit voice or text communication" unless using an earpiece or speakerphone.
Drivers face fines if they fail to move over for police cars, fire trucks and ambulances, but starting in 2010, that list also includes tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles.
New safety restraint and helmet requirements for youth riding in off-highway vehicles require children under 16 to be secured by proper restraints while riding jeeps, trucks, or side-by-side vehicles used for off-highway riding. The helmet requirement mandates that children under 18 must wear fastened helmets while riding in any class of off-highway vehicle not registered by DMV.
Oregonians using disabled parking permits must provide the Driver and Motor Vehicles Division with a medical professional's certification of their disability each time they renew their licenses.
A state of Oregon tax credit for new gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic and Ford Escape, ended December 31, but new vehicles that run on electricity, natural gas or E-85 (85 percent ethanol) will continue to qualify for the alternative fuel vehicle tax credit.
Another new law requires many restaurants to post food calorie information on their menus. The law is similar to one passed in Multnomah County.
Buildings in Oregon that are larger than 50,000 square feet and have more than 25 visitors per day must have at least one Automated External Defibrillator on their premises.
The State Department of Corrections announced Tuesday that it would remove soda pop for prisoners. In May, a tax watchdog group gave the department its "Golden Fleece Award" for wasting taxpayer money after learning that nearly $775,000 was spent on soda pop for prisoners between 2007 and 2009.
