Californians can now enjoy a new form of sun block.
California Vehicle Code Amendment No. 26708, which went in effect Jan. 1, allows drivers to apply solar protective window film to the front side windows of their vehicles.
Prior to amendment, putting such a film on automobile front windows was totally banned in California.
Now, clear, colorless transparent material may be installed on front side car windows providing:
1) The material is designed and manufactured to enhance the ability of the existing window glass to block the sun’s harmful Ultraviolet A rays.
2) The material has a minimum visible light transmittance of 88 percent.
3) The window glazing with material applied meets all requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
In addition, drivers must have in their possession a certificate signed by the installing company that certifies that the windows with the film installed meet all vehicle code requirements, and agree to remove any film that tears, bubbles or otherwise obstructs clear vision.
The California Highway Patrol vigorously supported the amendment, which was signed late last year by then-governor Pete Wilson. Congressman Tom J. Bordonaro Jr. worked with the CHP to prepare the amendment bill.
