Calif. bill would ban dogs on drivers' laps

In a 44-11 vote Monday, the California General Assembly approved a bill to ban motorists from holding dogs or any "live animal" while driving. AB 2233 had no formal opposition, but Assemblyman Martin Garrick, (R) said the measure is "overreaching." If passed, the bill would impose a $35 fine per infraction. No word on the penalty if the dog is also using a cell phone (which becomes illegal for California drivers on July 1). The Sacramento Bee reports.