• One of several changes in state law now in place.

By NICOLE CARTRETTE
Staff Writer

Wearing a seatbelt isn’t an option for backseat passengers in North Carolina anymore.
Last year, the state passed legislation making it illegal for backseat passengers not to buckle up.

From December 2006 to June 30, 2007, only warning tickets were allowable by law. Now, backseat passengers will be given citations and fined $10.

It is just one of several changes in the law that became effective recently.

Further implementation of the state’s move over law increases fines from $25 to $250 for drivers who do not move over on roadways for law enforcement officers, tow trucks and NCDOT public service officials on roadsides. Those unable to move over are required to slow down and be prepared to stop. Property damages of $500 or more are misdemeanors. Serious injury or death caused by such incidents are a class I felony.

Legislation passed and made effective last month authorizes the Division of Motor Vehicles not to renew and to cancel driver’s license for immigrants not authorized to be in the U.S under federal law.

Effective July 1, it is illegal to possess or operate a video poker machine in the state with the exception of those allowed by tribal-state compact.

Schools are required to inform parents of cervical cancer causes and vaccination. Effective June 30, sex offenders working in a county more than 10 business days within a 30-day period must register in that county as well as their home county to be listed on the sex offenders registry.

Sales tax on electricity to manufacturers dropped .23 percent on July 1, lowering the tax to 2.83 percent.

Effective April 24, judicial officers need not list home addresses or minor children’s names on public financial interest statements.

Upcoming changes include the state’s landfill moratorium set to expire Aug. 1.

On Oct.1 the following changes become effective: an act that allows judges to order juveniles be restrained in the courtroom if the judges finds it necessary, baiting of bears or processed foods in open areas for taking black bears is prohibited, and bond forfeitures are to be set aside if individual is incarcerated anywhere in the United States.

On Dec. 1, 2007 it becomes a class H felony to kill a police animal.