Watch CBS News

Gov. Hickenlooper Makes Exception In Vehicle Puffing Law

DENVER (AP) — It won't be a crime next winter to leave cars running unattended in Colorado— if they have remote-start systems.

puffing
Police warn drivers against "puffing" during cold weather. (credit: CBS)

Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper has signed into law an end to the state's full ban on so-called "puffing," or leaving a car running while the driver is away.

The practice is common on frigid Colorado winter mornings, but can leave the driver with a ticket because "puffing" makes cars vulnerable to theft. Legislative analysts say there are about 50 "puffing" tickets issued per year across Colorado.

The new law exempts car owners with remote-start systems. Drivers must keep the keyless start fob far enough away from the car that the vehicle can't be moved.

The change takes effect in August.

(© Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.