New Year Brings New State Laws

Dear Neighbors,   As 2017 comes to an end, we prepare for a number of new laws to take effect starting January 1, 2018. These new laws may have an impact on you, your business, or our communities. I therefore encourage you to take a look at the full list of laws that can be found by clicking here. I have listed some of the more noteworthy legislation below. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or clarifications regarding the implementation of these laws. AN ACT PREVENTING PRESCRIPTION OPIOID DIVERSION AND ABUSE - Public Act No. 17-131 - requires prescriptions be transcribed electronically to safeguard against over prescribing, reduces the maximum number of days for a prescription from seven to five for minors and allows patients to request drugs other than opioids be prescribed. Summary   AN ACT CONCERNING THE DEFINITION OF A VETERAN FOR A CERTAIN HONOR AND CERTAIN BENEFIT - Public Act No. 17-83 – broadens the eligibility criteria for certain veterans' benefits, allows additional people to receive a service ribbon and medal, be buried in a Connecticut veterans' cemetery, or have veteran status indicated on their driver's license or identity card. Summary   Please pass this information along to those who may benefit from knowing what to expect in the New Year in the State of Connecticut.   New legislation typically goes into effect on January 1st, July 1st, or October 1st in a calendar year, although a few laws go into effect immediately upon passage.   As always, please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns relating to state government at Nicole.Klarides-Ditria@housegop.ct.gov or at (800) 842-1423.   Sincerely,     State Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria