Sideshow

California Ushers in 2025 with Groundbreaking Public Safety and Traffic Laws: From Autonomous Vehicles to Enhanced Sideshow Crackdowns

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Sacramento, Calif. — As the calendar turns to 2025, California gears up to implement a host of new public safety laws, following their passage in the latest legislative session and receiving the stamp of approval from Governor Gavin Newsom. These laws, which cover a range of issues from autonomous vehicles to electric bicycle safety, are set to take effect starting January 1, unless specified otherwise. Amid growing concerns over public safety on roads, several laws have been enacted to curb reckless driving and illegal vehicle exhibitions such as sideshows. For instance, AB 1978 allows for … Read more

California Reporter Challenges Sideshow Spectator Law, Claims First Amendment Violations

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SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY, Calif. — The escalation of illegal automotive gatherings in California, known locally as sideshows, has led to stringent new measures involving not only participants but also onlookers. An increase in fines and expanded prosecutorial powers are now standard, with law enforcement aiming to deter such activities that often disrupt local communities. Amid these heightened legal responses, the introduction of certain ordinances has sparked contention regarding the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment, leading to a notable case recently filed in federal court. Sideshows, typically characterized by stunt driving and large crowds, have … Read more