Posted on 12/25/2002 12:57:56 PM PST by hoosierskypilot
SACRAMENTO -- In a bit of role reversal, California school kids will tote cell phones and adults will ride motorized scooters, all starting in 2003.
Hundreds of state laws are set to take effect, most on Jan. 1. Some are small changes in outdated codes, while others will have more consequence in the daily lives of Californians.
The laws come after months of state Capitol debate, all in a year capped by November's gubernatorial and legislative elections. In addition, a chronic and ever-expanding budget shortfall meant lawmakers felt pressure to limit the scope of their proposals.
In a controversial, labor-backed move, the state will become the first in the nation to provide workers paid leave to care for sick relatives or new children.
Under the law by Sen. Sheila Kuehl, D-Santa Monica, workers will pay an average of $27 each year toward the program, which will provide up to 55 percent of salary for as many as six weeks a year. Californians can receive benefits starting in July.
Online Christmas shoppers might already be familiar with another new law: Starting in March, Californians can ride a two-wheeled
battery-powered scooter called the Segway Human Transporter on sidewalks if allowed by local governments. The Segway, being sold on Amazon.com for $4,950 for the Christmas rush, can reach speeds up to 17 mph, turn in place and travel 17 miles on a single charge.
Some laws passed in 2001 also will take effect Jan. 1, including one requiring gun purchasers to obtain a $45
safety certificate from the state. To obtain the five-year certificate, buyers will have to pass a written test, demonstrate safety techniques and submit fingerprints.
(Excerpt) Read more at modbee.com ...
It will be cruel, dirty and dire beyond belief. The pursuit of tyranny must become expensive and ultimately lethal to the killers without conscience who pursue that dream. The rules of engagement are that there aren't any.
---legally!
Lenny
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