House Passes Bills Boosting Inheritance Limits, Driving Safety, Gun Control, and More
The House of Representatives has passed several significant bills this week, affecting various aspects of life in the state. These include measures to increase property inheritance limits, enhance driving safety, bolster gun control, and support rural job growth.
In a move to aid families, lawmakers voted to raise the value of property heirs can claim from deceased relatives from $11,000 to $20,000. Meanwhile, a new Driving Under the Influence Treatment Program bill was introduced, allowing successful treatment to lead to expungements, a step towards safer roads.
Four gun control bills were considered, with one passing. This bill requires background checks on long guns, demonstrating bipartisan support. However, its future in the Senate remains uncertain. The Rural Jobs Tax Credit program extension also passed, aiming to stimulate rural growth investments.
The House showed support for families and pets, with a pet custody bill passing. This instructs judges to consider key facts and allow enforceable agreements in pet custody cases. Additionally, a bill requiring homeowners to disclose flood risk and flood insurance requirements in sales processes passed unanimously.
Consumers and businesses will see changes too. A bill allowing private individuals to file claims against companies for violating the state's Breach of Personal Information Notification Act passed. Furthermore, a bill to 'ease the childcare cliff' was approved, enabling parents to continue childcare subsidies if their income doesn't exceed 300% of federal poverty guidelines. A new offense for harassment of sports officials was also created.
In the realm of green alternatives, water cremation may soon be an option. A bill to create a state-run insurance fund for landslide and sinkhole damage not caused by human activity passed. Lastly, the Dads Matter Act was approved with bipartisan support, promoting fathers' involvement in pregnancy and parenting.
These passed bills reflect the House's commitment to supporting families, enhancing safety, promoting green alternatives, and fostering economic growth. While some bills face uncertain futures in the Senate, they highlight the state's progress in various areas.
