Even though it’s been over 200 years since the U.S. Constitution was created, new laws go into effect on a regular basis. And with the beginning of the new year, now is a popular time for states to put new state regulations into effect. In fact, California recently signed multiple state regulations. If you’re a California resident, or just curious about what rules are changing in the state, you should know the new laws we’ll be discussing in this article.
Baby-changing tables in men’s rooms: For dads out with their babies, they’ll no longer have to face the difficulties of finding a place in public to change their babies’ diapers. Thanks to Assembly Bill 1127, shopping malls, sports arenas, and other large public buildings must have diaper-changing stations in either men’s restrooms or in a location accessible to both men and women.
Free feminine hygiene products in schools: Assembly Bill 10 requires public schools with students between the grades six and 12 with a 40% student poverty rate to provide free feminine hygiene products in restrooms.
Gun laws for criminals: Under new state regulations, anyone convicted of a felony or a certain misdemeanor must give up their current firearms. Additionally, any gun owner will not be able to have online ammunition purchases shipped to their homes. Instead, they will be shipped to a licensed vendor.
Legalization of recreational marijuana: For California residents over the age of 21, they can now purchase recreational marijuana without a medical card. But businesses still do have to apply for a state license to sell it, so it may be a while before it’s seen on shelves statewide.
Sanctuary state status: After years of indecisiveness over sanctuary cities, California is reinforcing its status as a “sanctuary state”. This means that neither state nor local law enforcement agencies will be able to use their resources to investigate, detain, or arrest people for immigration enforcement purposes.
Job protection for parents: Under The New Parent Act, parents who work for small businesses will now be allowed 12 weeks off to care for their newborn baby. This California legislature gives parents who work at businesses with 20 to 49 employees three months of unpaid maternity and paternity leave, without the worry of losing their jobs.
California is making a lot of changes to help their residents. What do you think about these new laws?
If you’re looking to do your own California legal research on these new state regulations or even some other legislative history of California, contact Legislative Intent Service, Inc. today. With our large private collection of legislative history materials, our experienced staff can help answer all of your questions.