Academic

New Laws in Texas

By Tim Zinnecker

Many new laws take effect in Texas today (September 1).  Here are a few (paraphrasing; consult statute for actual language):

Drivers and passengers, regardless of age and seat location, must wear a seat belt (some exceptions).

Drivers under the age of 18 may not operate a motor vehicle while using a "wireless communications device."

Persons younger than 16.5 years of age may not use a tanning facility.  Persons younger than age 18 cannot use a tanning facility without parental consent given in writing at the facility.

Individuals who are wrongfully incarcerated may be eligible to receive $80,000 (formerly $50,000) for each year served.

A person may commit a third-degree felony by engaging in certain online harassment.

Additional reading (with statutory references) here. 

So has Texas moved into, or out of, the mainstream with these changes in its laws?

Full post as published by The Faculty Lounge on September 01, 2009 (boomark / email).