New Laws for 2010

State legislatures enacted 40,697 laws in 2009, many of which took effect on Jan 1, 2010.

"The new laws cover a variety of areas, from texting and tanning beds to human trafficking and seat-belt safety."

Some of the laws going into effect:

HEALTH
"In Texas, HB 1310 prohibits teens younger than 16.5 years old from going to a tanning facility. Teens between 16.5 and 18 must be accompanied by an adult."

"A California bill enacted in 2008 requires restaurants to use oils, margarines, and shortening with less than half a gram of trans fat per serving. A similar provision will apply to baked goods in 2011."

SAFETY
"New Hampshire, Oregon, and Illinois join 16 other states in prohibiting drivers from sending text messages while driving."

"A new seat belt law in Oregon requires children under the age of 16 to wear a seat belt on an all-terrain vehicle or a car while on public property."

CRIME
"New Hampshire now prohibits the trafficking of people for the purposes of sexual or labor exploitation."

"Under California SB 492, registered gang members face steeper fines and up to one year in jail if they hang around schools within 72 hours of being asked to leave."

ANIMALS
"A new regulation from New York State's Racing and Wagering Board allows law enforcement to conduct drug-testing of horses that compete at New York tracks."

"California SB 135 makes it a misdemeanor to chop off a cow's tail, except for when it's medically necessary."


Well, now. 2010 may be looking better economically all around the world (or at least in Asia and America), but as far as law-abiding goes... more for the mind to consider when acting.

Educate yourselves.

-Annie Yang