CALIFORNIA - Governor Schwarzenegger has signed a law making it illegal to read or send text messages while driving effective January 1, 2009.  The penalty will be a $20 fine for a first offense and $50 for repeat offenders "using an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication," including emails.

The Governor says the law he signed encourages drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.  It follows previous laws restricting the use of cell phones while driving.  Since July, motorists have been required to use hands-free devices.

Employers with employees who drive as part of their job duties should review their driving policies to ensure they are in full compliance with the new law.  This includes, anyone under the age of 18 is prohibited from using any electronic devices.

Here are ten simple tools to help your organization save energy and the environment.  And you do not even have to be a tree hugger to do it!

1.  Utilize PG&E's online energy analyzer.

2.  Set your computers to go to "sleep" during the day after 10 minutes of non-use.  Remember that the screensaver does not save power.  This can reduce computer usage by 70%.

3.  Replace old light fixtures and bulbs for energy saving ones.  These use two-thirds less energy than regular ones.  For examples go to Energy Star.

4.  Save paper.  Consider placing your company manuals and policies online.  Have your copy machine defaulted to double sided copies.  Make it a habit to recycle your paper with blue trash cans.  REMEMBER: Be sure that your cleaning company is recycling the paper and not just putting it into the regular waste.

5.  GO GREEN with HR Logic.  Obtain employment forms and information online.

6.  Request paperless bills from your vendors and pay online.

7.  Consider telecommuting.  If you are a company that requires meetings with employees in different locations you might want to think teleconferencing.  Although, some meetings may require face-to-face, many do not.

8.  Recycle your toner.  Many suppliers, such as Staples, have wonderful programs that can assist you. 

9.  Are you purchasing fair trade coffee for your office?  Learn more.

10.  Cell phone recycling.  HopeLine is a Verizon Wireless program which collects cell phones from any provider and refurbishes or recycles them.  Contributions, cell phones and minutes are donated to non-profit domestic violence shelters and their victims.