ALBANY -- Starting November 1st, a new state law will prohibit drivers from using portable electronic devices, such as cell phones and smart phones to send text messages or emails while driving. The law also prohibits the use of a PDA, laptop computer, pager, a broadband personal communication device, two-way messaging device and electronic games while driving.
In Onondaga County, texting and emailing while driving has been illegal since signed into law on July 1st, 2009.
Violating the new law will result in a fine of up to $150.00. New York is the 18th state to pass a law banning texting and emailing while driving.
Also, New York's law requiring all boaters on small craft to wear life jackets during the cold weather months takes effect this weekend. The law was enacted after 13 offseason boating deaths in recent years involving people who were not wearing life jackets while using small boats.
The new law requires everyone on motorboats, canoes, kayaks, rowboats and sailboats less than 21 feet to wear a personal flotation device while on the water from Nov. 1 to May 1, when the water is coldest.
Violators could face fines of $25 to $100.
Life jackets must be worn year-round by all children under 12 on any boat less than 65 feet and must be available for everyone on board.
Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.
