State Rep. Kathy Webb’s newsletter for constitutents runs down some of the new laws that take effect in 2012, including the increase in the sales tax exemption on used cars from $2,500 to $4,000. (Used car dealers are already bitching that it isn’t enough.)
Some I’d missed or forgotten:
* CARBON MONOXIDE: Homes built after Jan. 1 must have carbon monoxide detectors.
* ELECTRONIC TICKETS: Cops are now authorized, but not required, to issue electronic traffic tickets. Those that adopt the practice still must provide printed copies, but electronic entry, it is thought, will reduce miscommunication from hand-written tickets and save time roadside.
* COURT COSTS: They’re going up for certain drug offenses to pay for drug courts and substance abuse programs as alternatives to prison.
* CARE OF AGING RELATIVES: The state is now covered by national uniform legislation to make it easier to handle multistate proceedings concerning adult guardianships.