California is known for prioritizing its residents’ safety and well-being, and that often means new legislation that protects them from rogue service providers, scams, and other threats. Several new laws went into effect on July 1, 2024 in California, each of which strives to protect Californians in different ways. At the Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates consumer rights law firm, we look forward to seeing how these laws help us better protect our clients’ privacy and consumer rights. If you are in the Long Beach area and need assistance, our Long Beach consumer rights lawyers are here to help. Wondering if you have a claim against a service provider or government agency? Let’s talk. Call us at 562-216-2944 to get started.
If you compare California’s legislation to that of other states, you’ll find that our state generally considers and passes far more bills than other municipalities. In 2024—and we’re only halfway through—the state has already considered 2,124 new bills. In some cases, these laws address new threats (such as artificial intelligence) and aim to curb them before they devastate entire industries. To navigate these complex laws, a consumer rights attorney can be invaluable in ensuring your rights are protected. In other cases, legislators propose bills that they know will not pass simply to encourage discussion among voters, alert them to potential issues, and bring issues to the forefront.
Expect Higher Taxes on Guns
Perhaps one of the most important new laws to go into effect this July is A.B. 28. California has made headlines many times over the years for its commitment to improved gun safety measures, although many of those measures have been shot down in appeals. With A.B. 28, the state will impose an 11% tax on the purchase of all firearms and ammunition. The funds generated from this tax will be used for programs targeting violence prevention and school safety. Currently, the tax is expected to yield $160 million each year.
Greater Protection for Those Drinking in Bars
Going out for a night on the town comes with inherent risks, particularly for women who may be targeted by those with common date rape drugs. A.B. 1013 will require all bars and nightclubs to add another layer of safety for patrons; they must provide drug test kits to patrons at no charge or at a low price, allowing consumers to test their drinks whenever they choose. Furthermore, facilities must put up a sign advertising their drink spiking drug test kits and telling consumers to talk to staff members for availability.
Limitations on Security Deposits
The housing crisis in Southern California is no joke. Rapidly increasing home prices and rental costs have priced many people out of the market entirely. Even if a renter can find a rental that fits their monthly budget, they may be pushed out by exorbitant fees. For example, landlords in California were previously allowed to charge up to three times the monthly rent for a security deposit—resulting in some tenants needing to come up with more than $10,000 just to move in. This new law will limit most landlords to a security deposit no higher than one month’s worth of rent. The goal of this law is to make housing more affordable and accessible to people across a range of incomes. As an added benefit, the same landlords who charge these high deposits may do so because they attempt to write off frivolous expenses that allow them to keep the security deposits. Large companies that rely on security deposits as a stream of income will be required to change their tactics or get out of the rental market entirely.
More Requirements for Workplace Violence Prevention
Workplace violence is a serious threat for Californians across a range of industries and workplace titles. S.B. 553 requires employers to develop, implement, and review workplace violence plans on a routine basis. When workplace violence occurs, employers must maintain a violent incident log that details where and when the accident occurred, who was involved, what type of violence occurred, and if medical treatment was required. Consulting a business and employee advising law firm in Long Beach can help ensure these requirements are met effectively. These incidents must be reviewed and addressed during subsequent reviews of workplace violence plans, and an employment advising attorney can provide essential guidance on compliance and best practices.
Protect Your Best Interests With the Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates
Wondering how these new laws may affect your business? It may be time to review your workplace violence plan or ensure that you are providing legally required goods and services to consumers. The business and employment advising lawyers at the Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates can assist you in developing a plan. Discuss your case with us by calling us at 562-216-2944.
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