Bill to ban drivers from holding pets is in Gov's hands

The Assembly Thursday finished legislative work on Assembly Bill 2233 by Assemblyman Bill Maze, R-Visalia, that would prohibit motorists from holding pets in their laps or arms while driving.

Violators would face a $35 fine.

``This is an everyday occurrence,'' Maze said after the vote, noting that he saw three drivers holding pets while driving on Highway 99 Wednesday.

The bill normally would go next to the governor, who hasn't taken a position on the measure. But he has threatened to veto most bills until a budget is passed, so the measure will be held in the Assembly until the budget impasse is resolved. More...