600 new laws go into effect in Louisiana since August 15, 2010

BATON ROUGE--Carol Forsloff -
Crime must have been on the minds of Louisiana lawmakers this season,
as 600 new laws have gone into effect since August 15 with crime a
strong priority, as well as issues of nationwide concern.

Let's

look at a few of those laws that impact the daily lives of people who
live in Louisiana first, that have developed as part of the concerns
nationally. For example, the use of cell phones while driving has
garnered the attention of lawmakers across the United States. As the
dangers of distracted driving become increasingly apparent, the laws and
penalties become increasingly rigid.


Under the newest Louisiana laws, police can stop drivers under the age
of 18 who are talking on their phones, or any drivers who are sending
text messages while driving. Previously, these were secondary offenses,
meaning that drivers could only be ticketed when already stopped for
other traffic violations.

Several laws are intended to address developing issues with youth and technology.


One new law aims to prevent sexting, the practice of sending sexually
explicit text messages. Another establishes the crime of cyber-bullying,
the sending of text messages or electronic message with the intent to
torment or intimidate someone under the age of 18.


A new law banning the sale of K2, a synthetic marijuana-like substance,
also took effect last month.   This is sometimes referred to as spice.
This has similarly caught the attention of law enforcement and
legislators nationwide - Louisiana is among the first states to
institute a complete ban, but many states are likely to follow suit.
Mississippi instituted a ban also this year.


Some of the new laws reflect an attempt to close existing loopholes.
For instance, while cockfighting has been prohibited in the state for
two years, a new law also makes it a crime to attend, bet on, or
purchase admission to these fights. Another law seeks to provide
additional protections for historic districts and buildings by
increasing the penalties for vandalism in these areas.


Legislators have also passed several controversial laws, which are
garnering a bit more attention. Under a new law, in certain
circumstances people of faith can now carry weapons to services with the
approval of the relevant house of worship. Another new law requires any
woman seeking an abortion to have an ultrasound and to be given a copy
of the image.


Of course, for some, the mere act of adding more than 600 new laws is
controversial. As Jim Brandt, president of the non-partisan Public
Affairs Research Council told The Times-Picayune, "who knew we needed

another 660 laws in Louisiana?"