From tougher penalties for burglary tools to new rules for electric bicycles and speed enforcement, a slate of public safety laws approved this year by California lawmakers will take effect in 2026, the California Highway Patrol reminded the public in a recent press release.
The measures, passed during the 2024 legislative session and signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, are aimed at improving roadway safety, protecting pedestrians and addressing emerging technologies such as electric bikes and autonomous vehicles. Unless otherwise specified, the laws take effect Jan. 1, 2026.
Among the criminal law changes, Assembly Bill 486 makes it a misdemeanor to possess certain high-tech tools — including key programming devices, key duplicators and signal extenders — when intended for use in a burglary. Violators could face up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
Several new laws focus on electric bicycle and off-highway vehicle safety. Under Assembly Bill 544, electric bicycles must display a red rear reflector or a solid or flashing red light with a built-in reflector at all times, not just at night. The law also allows a CHP-developed online safety course to satisfy training requirements for minors cited for helmet violations.
Senate Bill 586 creates a legal definition for off-highway electric motorcycles, or “eMotos,” classifying them as off-highway motor vehicles. Riders will be required to wear safety helmets, and unregistered vehicles must display identification issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Pedestrian safety in school zones is also addressed. Assembly Bill 382 allows cities and counties to lower school zone speed limits from 25 mph to 20 mph by ordinance through 2031. After that date, the reduced speed limit will automatically apply where proper signage is posted.
New speed enforcement tools are also coming. Assembly Bill 289 authorizes a pilot program using radar or laser systems in highway work zones to detect speeding and photograph license plates, with citations mailed to registered vehicle owners. Another measure, Assembly Bill 1014, allows Caltrans to lower highway speed limits by 5 mph and requires warning citations during the first 30 days after a reduction.
Drivers will also see an expansion of California’s “slow down and move over” law. Assembly Bill 390 extends protections to include any stationary highway maintenance or disabled vehicle using hazard lights, cones or flares.
Vehicle impoundment rules change under Assembly Bill 875, which allows officers to impound certain electric-powered vehicles capable of exceeding 20 mph if they do not qualify as electric bicycles and are operated by unlicensed riders. The law also applies to Class 3 electric bicycles operated by children under 16.
Additional laws passed in 2024 focus on product safety and emerging vehicle technology. Senate Bill 1271 requires electric bicycles, powered mobility devices and lithium-ion batteries to meet laboratory-tested safety standards and carry compliance labels starting in 2026. By 2028, noncompliant devices may no longer be offered for rent.
Assembly Bill 1777 addresses autonomous vehicles, granting law enforcement authority to issue notices of noncompliance to manufacturers once DMV regulations are in place. Beginning July 1, 2026, autonomous vehicles without human operators must also include two-way communication devices for first responders.
The CHP said it is highlighting the new laws to help Californians understand the changes and make safer choices on roads and highways statewide.