State Laws

Albany, NY – As part of ongoing efforts to combat distracted driving, New York state has established “texting zones” on major highways for motorists to park and use their cell phone.

New York – New legislation aimed at protecting pregnant women from certain job hazards and discrimination was passed by the New York City Council in a unanimous vote on Sept. 24 and now goes to Mayor Michael Bloomberg for his signature.

Sacramento, CA – Legislation intended to prevent California employers from retaliating against immigrant workers who report unsafe or unfair working conditions awaits the governor’s signature.

Springfield, IL – Assaulting a nurse in Illinois will be classified as aggravated battery – a third-degree felony carrying a prison sentence of two to five years – under legislation signed into law Aug. 16.

Tumwater, WA – The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries on Sept. 16 proposed an average increase of 2.7 percent for 2014 workers’ compensation premiums.

Sacramento, CA – California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health has proposed a new standard on safe patient handling for part of the health care industry.

Watertown, WI – New legislation in Wisconsin doubles the maximum and minimum fines for traffic violations that endanger sanitation workers.

Jefferson City, MO – A fund that owes millions to injured workers in Missouri is set to be replenished through a new business surcharge beginning in 2014.

Austin, TX – Beginning Sept. 1, assaulting emergency department personnel in Texas will be a felony offense under legislation signed into law June 14 by Gov. Rick Perry (R).

New York – Certain workers in New York City who do not have paid sick time will soon have access to it under a new law.