New Traffic, Tuition Laws

By Kingsley Hubbell · The Mainstream
Published Janurary 24, 2012

 The start of a new year brought the beginning of many new laws for Oregon. Three of the most interesting for students are the new DUI, cell phone and tuition waiver laws.

DUI

First time DUI offenders will be required to allow a device in their car that will prevent the motor from starting when the device senses alcohol in the car. This is part of Oregon’s diversion program. If the offender can successfully complete the diversion program, the fine can be reduced and the defendant avoids jail. The device is called an Ignition Interlock System which will be installed on the dashboard of the vehicle. The driver must blow into the breathalyzer. The device shows the blood alcohol concentration. If the BAC is over .02 - .04 percent, the starter will not engage.

“Once you’re on diversion, we thought having this tool would help them [first time offenders] keep from re-offending,” said Chuck Hayes, the chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.

Cell Phones

Formerly, employees were allowed to use cell phones for work purposes while driving. Now, only emergency personnel, tow truck drivers and utility workers can use phones while driving. Employees who are not part of the exemption are no longer permitted to use cell phones while commuting.

A $110 fine for using cell phones while driving has been added, and the fine can be assessed for any type of hand-held use, including map use.

Hands-free use is still allowed under House Bill 3186. However, the law stipulates that drivers under 18 cannot use either a hands-held cell phone or any hands-free cell phone devices. The minimum fine is $142.

Tuition Wavers

Tuition waivers are now available for Oregon foster youth, making it easier for them to get a college education. The law also gives these young people first dibs for Oregon Opportunity Grants.

“It will really help our young adults who have already faced incredible challenges,” said Sen. Laurie Monnes Anderson, quoted at OregonLive.com.

Foster students who want to be eligible for the waiver must complete 30 hours of community service each year that they attend college.