New month means new laws for Idaho residents

The second half of the year starts off with several new Idaho laws.

These laws went into effect Sunday, July 1, which also marks the start of a new fiscal year for the state.

The Legislature passed over 300 bills during their last session. While the majority of the bills have to do with amending current legislation or setting budgets, new laws were also created.

Perhaps the most well-known of the new laws is the ban on texting while driving, but there are other laws to be conscious of as well. Animal cruelty is now a felony in Idaho’s books, making Idaho the 48th state to enact such a law.

One law in particular has local law enforcement pleased. Drivers are now able to provide proof of insurance via smartphones.

“A lot of people wouldn’t have the current registration form with them,” said Sgt. Jeff Edwards with the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office. “So for example, they would have three or four older forms and never have the opportunity to show a current form.”

In Bonneville County, insurance citations account for 15 percent of all traffic stops. If stopped, drivers have the option of providing proof of insurance at the scene or at the courthouse on a later date.

“There’s a little bit of time involved there, but a lot of paperwork and a lot of time for the court clerks that’s not necessary if they’re able to provide proof on a smartphone of some type.”

Other new state laws ban minors from purchasing e-cigarettes, require massage therapists to be licensed and protect young athletes from concussions.

A full list of bills passed from the last legislative session is available for view at http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2012/law.htm.