With the New Year Comes New Laws

Saturday, 03 January, 2009

A set of new state laws that regulate a wide range of issues is now in effect throughout Virginia. All of the laws stem from legislation passed by Virginia’s General Assembly.

One of the biggest changes to Virginia law deals with Quick cash payday loans. Last year lawmakers passed some of the toughest lending laws in the country, limiting residents to one payday loan at a time, but allowing more pay-back time.

The Commonwealth will now use a database to track whose borrowing, how much money people are getting, and how often they're getting it. Lawmakers say they're still concerned because some high-interest lenders are trying to use different kinds of loans to avoid the new rules.

Also on the books in 2009 are two campaign finance laws that change what we know about political contributions. Under the new measures, political action committees must provide information about who donates money to specific campaigns.

If someone gives money to an action committee for a specific candidate, the group is now required to provide information about that person to the candidate seeking office. The laws are designed to bring more transparency to the electoral process.

Local governments are also required to share more information with the public, thanks to two new public records laws. School divisions, cities and counties must now post copies of their annual budgets online, or provide hard copies for easy public inspection.

A final law that's now in effect provides stronger regulations to prevent puppy mills and protect animal rights.

Source: nbc29.com