Starting Friday, various new laws kicked into action across Texas, affecting everything from cigarettes to tanning beds. In some cases, however, some grace period has been granted before the laws are completely put into action.

From Friday, under 16s have been barred from using a tanning device, and under 18s need a permission slip from their parents. Also, cigarettes have to be "fire-safe" now, i.e., these have to be made of self-extinguishing materials that help the cigarette snuff out all on its own when not smoked.

Also, another important law that will come into action across Texas is that hand-held mobile devices are not to be used in active school zones, and there should be no talking or texting. Emergency call and handsfree devices, however, are still allowed.

On the medical front, students moving into college campuses need to possess a valid doctor's note showing that they have been properly vaccinated against bacterial meningitis, and pregnant women have to be tested for infectious diseases, unless the lady objects.

Certain laws have also been changed for real estate and property dealing.