House Republican Press Release

September 24, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

A VIEW FROM THE INSIDE

State Representative Ruth Fahrbach

A number of laws will be taking effect on Oct. 1

It’s that time of year again. With autumn on the horizon, a number of laws enacted by the legislature will be taking effect Oct.1. Often times, bills are passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by the Governor, but do not take effect immediately. Below is a summary of some of the more relevant laws that will take effect.

Beginning Oct. 1, any state employee who is a certified Red Cross volunteer is eligible for up to 15 days per year to participate in disaster relief efforts by the Red Cross, without loss of pay, vacation time or sick leave.     

Senior citizens that are at least 62 years old will qualify for a discount on their automobile insurance premiums. The discount must be at least five percent and should run for a term of at least two years. To qualify for the discount, seniors must complete an accident prevention course approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles. 

In an effort to hinder the illegal use of handicapped parking spots, the fines for violating the handicapped parking statutes will be increased. The first violation will net a fine of $150, and a second violation will result in a fine of $250.

Reacting to the suggested benefits of using “green” cleaning products, a new law will require all state and municipal buildings to use only cleaning products that meet federal Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.   

One of the more important pieces of legislation that was passed this year was Jessica’s Law, which will become effective Oct. 1. Jessica’s Law establishes a new crime of aggravated sexual assault of a minor, enhances the penalty for enticing children under age 13, and imposes mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment for enticing a child under age 13, having sexual or indecent contact with a child under age 13, employing a minor in an obscene performance, and importing or possessing child pornography, among other measures that will help protect our children.

The Office of Legislative Research has compiled a report that lists all of the laws that become effective on Oct. 1, 2007. If you would like a copy of the OLR report, contact my office at 240-8700. 

Rep Ruth Fahrbach represents the 61^st District, including Suffield, and parts of Windsor and East Granby, in the General Assembly.