Last week before new laws take effect

Nearly 300 new state laws go on the books one week from today. Traditionally, Aug. 15 is the start date for the bulk of the bills passed by the Legislature during a session. A few have already caught the attention of employers hoping to expand in coming years: for example, Act 410, which throws the state’s popular Quality Jobs Program a life preserver. The program was slated to expire in January, but the legislative act will extend it to 2018. Some new laws will send waves through the state’s social structure, like Act 411, which will require that special signage be posted in abortion clinics and on a state-funded website. Here’s a sample from the state-sanctioned signs that are being prepared for next week: “There are many public and private agencies willing and able to help you to carry your child to term, and to assist you and your child after your child is born, whether you choose to keep your child or to place her or him for adoption.” Of course, there are local changes in store, too. Thanks to Act 145, the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales will be able to begin accepting corporate sponsorships. For those driving in Louisiana, Act 174 will make the use of split-view screens in vehicles legal: Such devices give the driver access to navigational information and the passenger a view of other things, like movies. For a closer look at all of the laws going into effect Aug. 15, click here. —Jeremy Alford