Coloradans who can afford a car with a remote ignition switch have a legal right to warm seat on cold mornings, after Gov. John Hickenlooper signed House Bill 1122 to make an exception from the state’s “puffer” vehicle law.

The Democratic governor signed the Republican-sponsored bill Thursday. The exception won’t help motorists this chilly spring, however. The law takes effect 90 days after the end of the legislation session on May 11, which is Aug. 10.

The measure was strongly supported, passing the House, 59-4, on Feb. 18 and in the Senate, 34-0, on March 14.

The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Justin Everett from Littleton, characterized his bill as a public-safety issue and an unnecessary hurdle, since unattended cars can remain locked to deter thieves.

Those who do not have remote ignition switches, however, still must abide by the state’s unattended-vehicle law. A violation is a Class B traffic misdemeanor for the person responsible for a car or truck to “permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key from the ignition and effectively setting the brake thereon.”

A violation carries of minimum fineof $15 and a maximum fine of $100.

Each winter local police departments run campaigns to make residents aware of the law and the risks for car thefts. Those who steal puffers also have a set of keys to the vehicle-owner’s homeand business.