January 2008: New Year, New Laws

'Tis the Season for New Laws
As the calendar flips to 2008, it's a good time to make sure you are up to date with the most recent laws and regulations. Review each page below to learn what you need to do.

Also, check the Required Posters and Notices chart to make sure you are compliant, and test your knowledge with our interactive quiz.
Earned Income Tax Credit
AB 650 requires some employers to notify employees of possible eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit.

Effective Jan. 1, 2008
Military Spouse Leave
AB 392 requires some employers to provide unpaid leave to employees with spouses in the military.


Already in effect

Computer Professional Rate Lowered
SB 929 lowers the hourly minimum compensation from $41 to $36.

Effective Jan. 1, 2008
 
Employers' Use of SSNs Restricted
Public postings of Social Security numbers among AB 3082 restrictions.

Effective Jan. 1, 2008

Attention Drivers: Hands Off That Cell Phone
SB 1613 says that those caught talking on a hand-held cell phone while driving will be fined up to $50 per violation.

Effective July. 1, 2008
 
Temporary Disability Payments Modified
AB 338 removes the requirement that the TD benefits be collected within two years of the first date that TD is paid.


Effective Jan. 1, 2008


More New Laws

AB 14 - Civil Rights Act of 2007
  • Extends civil rights protections to additional circumstances, entitling all people in California to full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges or services
AB 102 - Name Change, Domestic Partnership and Marriage License
  • Makes it easier for one or both parties in a domestic partnership to change their names
SB 783 - Amusement Ride Safety
  • Increases insurance amount that ride operators must carry, tightens accident-reporting requirements, requires safety training
SB 812 - Pharmacists and Alternative Workweek
  • Resolves a Wage Order inconsistency, clarifying the terms and conditions of creating an alternative workweek

   SB 869 - Workers' Comp
  • Gives the Labor Commission power to identify unlawfully insured employers
AB 632 - Health Care and Whistleblower Protection
  • Prohibits discrimination or retaliation against a whistleblower in the health care industry
SB 777 - Prohibited Discrimination in Public and Private Education
  • Revises list of prohibited bases of discrimination
AB 949 - Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly
  • Requires care facilities to take measures to transfer residents safely and with minimal trauma
AB 1302 - HIPAA
  • Extends the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act's duration to July 10, 2010
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