In a news release Tuesday from the California Highway Patrol there are a few new traffic laws going into effect for 2020. CHP encourages drivers to be aware of and prepare for them.
The laws are set to go into effect on Jan. 1, 2020.
License points for distracted driving (AB 47, Daly):  Current law prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone in a handheld manner; if found in violation, the offense is punishable by a fine.  However, beginning July 1, 2021, this new law will levy an additional penalty on a driver found in violation of California’s hands-free law:  a point will be added on to a driver’s record for each hands-free violation occurring within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense.
Peace officer use of deadly force (AB 392, Weber):  Beginning January 1, 2020, this new law revises the standards for use of deadly force by peace officers.  The use of deadly force by a peace officer is justifiable when the officer reasonably believes it is necessary.   Section 835a of the Penal Code amends the reasonable force standard to “objectively reasonable force.”
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