Laws Introduced in 2014 and Beyond

Each year our country introduces new laws that generally go into effect on the first of the new year. They often vary from state to state and while some make perfect sense, others have many shrugging their shoulders and asking why?

Lets start with one of the most controversial laws of 2014, the legalization of marijuana in the states of Colorado and Washington. The law states that folks over the age of 21 can possess up to an ounce of marijuana for recreational use in these states, while the plant remains banned by the federal government. Marijuana, which is classified as a Schedule I drug along with heroin and LSD, has been legalized for medical use in over 20 states and the District of Columbia.

Washington D.C. and Oregon have approved a bill that could legalize marijuana in 2015, and many states will put similar bills up for voting in the coming year.

Newly issued insurance policies and laws under the Affordable Care Act began covering patients this past year, there are still a lot of opposition to the referred to “Obama Care” the plan will continue to move forward, at least for now.

2014 also brought stricter gun control laws. For example, in the state of Connecticut, on the heels of the Newtown school shootings, a law requiring mandatory registration of all assault weapons and large-capacity ammunition magazines purchased prior to April 2013.

Laws to protect people from Drones also went in affect this year including the state of Illinois which prohibits law enforcement from using a drone to gather information, except with a warrant issued to counter a terrorist attack, prevent harm to life, or prevent the imminent escape of a suspect, among other situations.

Other laws that went into effect this year include, internet laws to protect people from cyber spying and laws against handheld cell phones while driving.

40,000 laws went into affect this past year, so what’s on the horizon for 2015?

In Virginia a new law that requires people approaching 75 years old, or are already over this age to get their license renewed more often, and get a vision screening at the state DMV.

Tax laws will change this year, largely do to the Affordable Care Act (Obama Care) you could be penalized if you’re not signed up, this varies with individuals, so contact the IRS or speak to your tax preparer for more information.

Those were some of the big ones this past year now brace yourself for the new ones that start in a few weeks.