By Kasandra Garza
News Reporter

The San Marcos city council has passed a hands-free ordinance, making it against the law to be on mobile devices while driving.

The City Council moved forward with their decision to issue a city ordinance that will prohibit the use of electronic devices in vehicles.

A first offense will cost up to $100. Fees will not exceed $500. The ordinance will go into effect on Feb. 1, 2016. Warnings will be given through Feb. 29. Fines will not be given out until Mar. 1, 2016.

Also discussed at the meeting was San Marcos’s annual Sights and Sounds event, transgender remembrance day and the “Help to Overcome” flood recovery efforts.

Mayor Daniel Guerrero announced this year’s Sights and Sounds event will take place Dec. 2-5, 2015.

Regarding flood recovery efforts, Texas State University students will have the opportunity to contribute their time  on Nov. 20, also known as “H2O” day. Texas State students are asked to participate in the “Help to Overcome” flood recovery event, where students will assist in rebuilding efforts in the Blanco Gardens neighborhood and mold remediation.

Lastly, the City of San Marcos passed a proclamation regarding  “Transgender Day of Remembrance,” which will take place on Nov. 19. The San Marcos community will have the opportunity to honor transgender lives and remember the victims of transphobia.