By DOUGLAS W. MOTLEY
Senior Writer
As pointed out in Part One of this two-part series, California legislators sent hundreds of bills proposing new laws to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk, 25 of which the governor gave his approval to by signing them into law. Some of these new state laws may have an effect on your everyday life.
Public Health
SB 2 – Code 5350 – Conservatorship: This bill would establish the procedure of establishing, administering and terminating a conservatorship for persons who are disabled as a result of a mental health disorder or impairment by chronic alcoholism. Minors now can be appointed a conservator; they will undergo a background check and may be subject to stand before a court. This new code went into effect on Jan. 1, 2024.
Code 14046- Electronic Medical Records: This law, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2024, would allow the establishment of the Medi-Cal Promoting Interoperability Program for the implementation and use of electronic health records systems.
SB 407 – LGBTQ Youth Support: The California Department of Youth Services will be directed to ensure that LGBTQ youth are placed with supportive and gender-affirming foster parents. The law requires a family demonstrate the ability to meet a child’s needs, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
Public Safety
SB 2 – Concealed Carry Revision: This legislation prevents concealed carry of a firearm in some public spaces, including sidewalks and school zones.
AB 701 – Fentanyl Distribution Penalty: This new law increases potential prison sentences for criminals convicted of dealing high amounts of fentanyl.
SB 14 – Child Sex Trafficking: Classifies child sex trafficking as a serious felony. It includes harsher penalties on people convicted of such crimes.
SB 673 – Ebony Alerts: Beginning on Jan. 1, 2024, a new emergency alert called an Ebony Alert, will be used to help locate missing Black women and youth.
AB 360 – Excited Delirium: Coroners, medical examiners and physicians will be prohibited from using the controversial term “excited delirium” as a cause of death and from being recognized as a valid medical diagnosis. The bill would prohibit a peace officer from using the term to describe an individual in an incident report.
Consumer Laws
AB 618 – Campsite Reservations: Beginning on Jan. 1, 2024, fees will be imposed on state campsite reservation holders who cancel within two to six days of their stays. These fees can include the cost of the first night.
AB 1084 – Gender-Neutral Toys: Department stores with at least 500 employees are required to have a gender-neutral section of toys.
AB 261 – Mushrooms: This new law, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2024, establishes the California golden chanterelle as the official state mushroom.
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