Oakhurst at Kingwood residents should be wary when driving through New Caney I.S.D.'s and other schools' school zones, as a new state law will prohibit the use of wireless communication devices while operating a vehicle in a school zone. Violators must pay a fine of up to $200 per violation.

House Bill 55 is set to take effect on September 1, and is intended to promote the safety of students. The law will be in full affect in all Texas school districts.

A few facts about the law:

• Provisions under the law will allow drivers to use cell phones in school zones with a hands-free device or when their vehicle is stopped.
• School bus drivers will be affected, too.
• The law is an amendment of the Texas Transportation Code, section545.425.
• An additional exception is provided in emergency situations, when a driver needs to use a cell phone in a school zone to contact police, fire, or emergency medical personnel.

We beg Oakhurst at Kingwood residents to heed this new law, as it is designed with the safety of you and your children in mind!