Happy New Year!
With New Year resolutions, including promises to get back in the gym, promises to stop smoking, etc., also comes new state laws and regulations. So what’s new? Well, in North Carolina, there is a restaurant and bar smoking ban. Why is this a big deal? Well, North Carolina is the country’s biggest tobacco producer. The ban goes into effect on Saturday, January 02, 2009. I’m not sure how this help’s the state’s budget since the state has long been depended on tax $$$ from the big tobacco companies.
If you live in New Hampshire, Oregon and Illinois, there will be no more texting while driving for you! The New Year ushered in a ban on texting in these states. My personal opinion is that there should be a ban on texting while driving in EVERY state. It’s just silly and pressed!
In Arkansas, they have banned imitation (or toy) guns that look like real guns. I think that this was a waste of legislative power if you ask me. Who cares? People will find a gun to do whatever they want to do. Why on earth would you take the time to ban imitation guns? Anyway….
In Massachusetts, dog racing is now banned. Believe it or not, this was a 75 year tradition!!!
I thought that California revealed the most interesting bans. The state has a partial ban on serving products with trans fat in state restaurants. The state has also enacted an anti-paparazzi law. Hmmm. Interesting.
Lastly, in New Hampshire, Joe and John can marry, and so can Mary and Sue. Not only can they have a ceremony, but they can also obtain a marriage license. I have no additional comment on this issue. ****sigh****
There were a number of other laws that took effect around the country today, and that will take effect on Saturday and Monday. If you want to know if your state has enacted new laws that will take effect in 2010, take a look at your state’s official website. If you live in the District, like me, go to www.dc.gov and see if there are any new laws that you need to be aware of in 2010.
Happy New Year to you, also!
I think the most interesting ban I read about on your blog was the California legislative changes, specifically, about the paparazzi. Some of them go to far and while I lived in L.A., I remember going to the grocery store and looking behind me after hearing people (literally) jump out of the bushes with their cameras to take a picture of celebrities who just finished grocery shopping.
Ibi
Interesting post. Let’s not forget about the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act. Plenty of benefits for us card holders but one I find particularly useful is the ability to pay down balances with the highest percentage rate simply by paying more than the minimum balance. For example, if you have a card with both an intro balance of 3% and another balance of 12%, each dollar you pay over the minimum payment will now go towards the 12% balance. It’s something to keep in mind as we all try to take control of our finances in 2010.
Happy New Year
Good information. I am sure that most of us have a resolution to pay off debt. So I’m sure many people will that information helpful. Thank you for sharing!
I want to find out more information about the paparazzi law in California. I am wondering how it was even passed. Don’t you think that the law may infringe on the right of the paparazzi to make a living? Just curious….
Hi Snowboarders
Spending the weekend at Mt Pinos Ski .
Still crowded?
When I lived in the midwest ,
really enjoyed, like Snow Creek Ski and West Virginia Snow Ski
Happy Skiing!
Hey Folks
Seriously considering spending some hard earned cash for a Long Island Romantic Getaways .Might be too costly- I grew up near that area, so I would definitely like the Places to visit in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A 3rd option is to check out the Places to Visit in Florida Need some pointers.
See you in the spring!.