PA Enacts New Laws
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has signed six new laws, marking a significant milestone in the state’s legislative landscape. These laws aim to address various issues, including support for domestic violence victims, driving under the influence, and vaping product regulation.
A notable law update allows victims of domestic violence to submit confidential evidence to expedite unemployment claims. This provision enables individuals to self-affirm that their safety or that of their family members would be compromised if they continued employment. They are then given 120 days to provide additional documentation, such as a statement from a qualified professional or evidence of a protective order.
In response to a recent Supreme Court ruling, a new law has been established to create a Driving Under the Influence Treatment Program. This program enables individuals to receive treatment and complete community service, potentially leading to expungement of the offense. The law also allows courts to consider prior offenses in new arrests, providing a more nuanced approach to addressing driving under the influence.
Convenience stores and retailers selling vaping products will now be required to adhere to a new directory of legal electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). This directory is designed to provide clarity in a market flooded with unregulated and potentially hazardous products, mirroring existing legislation for tobacco products.
Additional laws have been enacted to streamline the process for catering businesses serving liquor at funerals and memorial services, reducing the permit waiting period from seven days to 24 hours. Furthermore, a clarification has been made to the state’s Second Class Township Code, outlining the process for filling vacant seats on a township’s board of supervisors.
A commemorative bell will be displayed at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex, marking a significant milestone in the state’s history. These new laws demonstrate the state’s commitment to addressing various social and regulatory issues, providing a more supportive and safe environment for its citizens.
