DMV announces new laws for 2026

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) - The DMV of California announced several new laws signed by Governor Gavin Newsom that will go into effect in 2026.

These new laws include a law that will extend the probation period for those convicted of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated from two years to between three and five years. 

"This penalty I think adds some consequences or gets people second guessing or second thinking about driving impaired," says Officer Jesse Yuhas with Indio police department.

Another new law will require vehicles to move over and slow down for any vehicle that has hazard lights turned on, not just emergency or law enforcement vehicles.

"I think that if it's about safety, it's probably good for us to do. I think in a place like the Coachella Valley, it's probably more doable because there's a lot more space," says Gloria Perez, an Indio resident.

Here's a link to the full list of new laws from the DMV.