New laws include driving regulations, RFRA, sawed-off shotguns

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – From teen driving laws to sentencing guidelines for decapitation, there are a wide range of new laws going into effect Wednesday.

Here’s a look at some of the bigger changes in Indiana law this year:

• A law will strictly restrain cell phone use among young drivers. Under the new Indiana laws, all drivers under 21 will no longer be able to use any sort of telecommunications device – even hands-free – for any purpose behind the wheel. The only exception is calling 911 in the case of an emergency. Click here for more details on the law.
• Another new law will change the statute of limitations on rape cases. Prosecutors can now pursue charges in rape cases that are older than five years. Click here for more details on the law.
• The so-called slow poke law also goes into effect Wednesday. The law has made national headlines. Essentially, drivers in the left lane must move over for another vehicle and could be ticketed if they don’t. Click here for more details on the law.
• Sawed-off shotguns will also make a return to Indiana. Starting Wednesday, the previously outlawed weapon will be legal to manufacture, sell or own. Click here for more details on the law.
• Starting Wednesday, murders involving decapitation will now be considered an aggravating factor in deciding whether a defendant should receive a death penalty sentence. Read the full bill here.
• Of course, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act also goes into effect Wednesday. Click here for extended coverage of the controversial law.