Governor

Signed into law a bill (SB 1372) by Sen. Nicholas Petris (D-Oakland) to require the use of automobile safety seat belts for all children under age 4 in all automobiles, including rental cars.

Assembly

Floor Action:

Hate Crimes: Passed and sent to the Senate on a 41-20 vote a bill (AB 2683) by Assemblyman Richard Floyd (D-Carson) to allow victims of alleged hate violence to sue for monetary damages from public and private groups that violate their constitutional rights.

Bill Introductions:

Drug Dealer Bail: AB 4238 by Assemblyman Bruce Bronzan (D-Fresno) would add major drug dealing to the list of serious felony crimes for which a judge could deny bail for a defendant.

Senate

Committee Action:

Cigarette Vending Machines: The Judiciary Committee rejected a bill (SB 1837) by Sen. Gary K. Hart (D-Santa Barbara) to ban cigarette vending machines except in locations not accessible to minors. Violations would have called for $1,000 merchant fines. A 2-5 vote was cast on the bill. Six yes votes were required for approval.

Bill Introductions:

Drug Testing: SCR 98 by Sen. Newton Russell (R-Glendale) asks for a state study to ascertain the feasibility of testing all pregnant women and newborn infants to detect drugs. The study findings would have to be presented to the Legislature on or before July 1, 1991.