Students updated on new laws
by Jessica Johnson, reporter

    South Campus students received an update on changes in Texas laws last month.

   Cpl. David L. Herndon, crime prevention specialist with the TCC Police Department, discussed the new violations as well as their penalties and fines.

   “In order to understand the changes, you must first understand the different types of offenses and penalties for such offenses. Offenses are broken down into misdemeanor and felony offenses,” he said.

   Misdemeanor and felony offenses are also broken down into different categories determined by the severity of the violation, Herndon said.

   Misdemeanors are classified as C, B, or A, with C being the least severe type. Misdemeanors are punishable by a fine or confinement in jail, sometimes both.

   Herndon said felony offenses also are placed into separate categories with the least severe being state jail. Also included are third, second, first and capital felonies, punishable by prison and/or fines.

   “Once you understand the types of offenses, it is easier to understand how the changes made in the legislature affect you,” he said. “As well as new laws being put into effect, some laws have been modified.”

   One of the most publicized changes in Texas law relates to alcohol and open containers in vehicles. Texas was one of the few states to allow open containers in vehicles. Now an open container with any amount of an alcoholic beverage is in violation of the law.

   Containers must be placed in a locked glove box or trunk to avoid being in violation. Exceptions include motor vehicle homes, limousines and taxis. Violation of the new law is a class C misdemeanor.

   Harassment laws have been made to keep up with technology, Herndon said. E-mail was added as a method of harassment along with instant messages.

   Herndon said the e-mail is proof of harassment and can be helpful in a case of someone being stalked.

   New laws also have been made to protect merchants from gas theft, Herndon said.

   Driving off without paying for gas can result in the loss of a driver’s license for 180 days. Once a person applies to have his license reinstated, he can be denied for another 180 days.

   Numerous changes have occurred in vehicle safety restraint laws. Child safety restraint in vehicles has been modified. It is an offense if a child younger than 4 or less than 36 inches in height is not secured.

   An offense is also committed if a person allows a child older than 4, but younger than 17, to ride in a vehicle without being secured by a safety belt.

   New laws have also changed the policy of riding in the back of an open bed truck.

   It is now illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to ride in the back of an open bed truck. The exemptions include parades or permitted hayrides.

   Changes in vehicle passenger restraining laws are numerous and detailed. Officer Herndon recommended the Texas Department of Public Safety web site at http://txdps.state.tx.us to assist anyone who may have questions in the future.