229-333-2157 June 30, 2010
10-113
Communications Specialist
System Implements Annual Compliance Training
VALDOSTA -- In response to the Board of Regents and Department
of Administrative Services (DOAS) Comprehensive Loss Control
Program, Valdosta State University has adopted a new motor vehicle
use procedure that requires all employees who drive on
institutional business -- regardless of frequency or location -- to
complete annual compliance training.
For more information, go to
http://www.valdosta.edu/finadmin/human_resources/MotorVehicleProcedure.shtml
State employees should familiarize themselves with the latest
driving laws, which are in effect as of July 1.
Wireless Telecommunications Devices
Senate Bill 360 -- the Caleb Sorohan Act -- prohibits
individuals from using wireless telecommunications devices for
writing, sending or receiving text messages while operating a motor
vehicle. "No person shall operate a motor vehicle on any public
road or highway of this state while using a wireless
telecommunications device to write, send, or read any text based
communication, including but not limited to a text message, instant
message, electronic mail, or Internet data.”
Each offense will result in a $150 and the addition of one point to
the violator’s driver’s license.
To read more about the bill, go to http://www.legis.state.ga.us/legis/2009_10/sum/sb360.htm
House Bill 23 prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from
using wireless telecommunications devices. A wireless
telecommunications device is defined as “a cellular telephone, a
text-messaging device, a personal digital assistant, a stand alone
computer, or any other substantially similar wireless device that
is used to initiate or receive a wireless communication with
another person.” It does not include citizens band radios, citizens
band radio hybrids, commercial two-way radio communication devices,
subscription-based emergency communications, in-vehicle security,
navigation, and remote diagnostics systems or amateur or ham radio
devices.
Like Senate Bill 360, the fine for each offense is $150 and one
point on the driver’s license. If the operator of the moving motor
vehicle is involved in an accident at the time of a violation, then
the fine is doubled.
To read more about House Bill 23, go to http://www.legis.state.ga.us/legis/2009_10/sum/hb23.htm
Seatbelt Safety
Senate Bill 458 requires that each occupant in the front seat of a
“passenger vehicle,” including pickup trucks, must be restrained by
a seatbelt. The previous law allowed those in the front seat of
pickup trucks to ride unrestrained. State employees driving pickup
trucks on- or off-campus, regardless of how short the distance
traveled, must adhere to the law. The Governor’s Office of Highway
Safety estimates that the bill will save 100 lives each year.
For more information about Senate Bill 458, go to http://www.legis.state.ga.us/legis/2009_10/sum/sb458.htm
