New Year New Laws

From Senator Dave Cogill's January Newsletter

With the New Year comes a slate of new laws. Below is a list of the most significant legislation that you should know about. 

Minimum Wage Increase
Another increase brings the State's minimum wage to $8 an hour, up from $7.50 last year and $6.75 in 2006. With this increase, California is now tied with Massachusetts for the second highest minimum wage rate in the country. Although the increase may be welcome news to some workers, many businesses, especially small businesses have stated that the increase could threaten their economic viability.

Smoking in Vehicles
New legislation makes it illegal to smoke in a car carrying a minor child.  The legislation applies to vehicles that are moving or parked, and the fine for a violation will cost up to $100. 

Cell Phones in Vehicles
Two new laws geared at reducing cell phone use by drivers have received much attention. One makes it illegal for any driver to use a handheld phone unless there is an emergency. The other makes it illegal for drivers under 18 to use any phone, even hands-free phones, as well as other mobile devices, while behind the wheel.  Please note - these laws do not going into effect until July 1. 

Sale of Kangaroo Products
It is now legal to sell products made from the leather of kangaroos that are not listed as endangered by the Federal Government. The end of the prohibition against the sale of these products will benefit soccer players who can now purchase specialty soccer shoes made of kangaroo leather from stores in California , rather than having to purchase them in other states where their sale has long been legal. Additionally, at least one local manufacturer should benefit from the legislation as it begins production of a new boot made from kangaroo leather that will be used by law enforcement officers. Under the law, it is still illegal to sell products made from kangaroos that are considered endangered under the Endangered Species Act. 

Bicycle Safety
When riding at night, cyclists must now make sure that their bikes are outfitted with a front light and rear reflectors. 

Gift Card Cash-In
Under a new law, consumers will be allowed to redeem gift cards for cash if the balance is less than $10. 

Domestic Violence and Pets
Victims of domestic violence can now ensure that their pets are protected by including them in a restraining order against their abuser. 

Gang Prevention
The parents of minor children involved in gang activity can now be ordered by a court to attend parenting classes. By increasing parental involvement, the law aims to give parents of at risk youth the tools that will help steer them away from the gang lifestyle. 

High Polluting Vehicles
Legislation that I authored will set up a pilot program to allow the owners of high polluting vehicles in the San Joaquin Valley to trade their vehicles for cleaner vehicles which have been donated to the program. The pilot program will be administered by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.

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