some new laws on the books

as of october 1st

Start of October brings dozens of new state laws

Hartford-AP, October 1, 2006 8:45 AM)_ The first day of October has ushered in more than 100 new state laws or sections of laws that address everything from teen drinking parties to child welfare cases. Starting today, it is illegal for someone to knowingly allow minors to possess alcohol on their private property. The legislation closes a loophole that allowed parents to hold house parties with alcohol for their teens and friends. The first offense is an infraction, but subsequent offenses carry up to a year in prison and a fine of up to $500, or both. The law also bans minors from possessing alcohol anywhere, instead of only in public places. Another new law requires the Department of Children and Families to notify a child's grandparents if the agency removes that child from parental custody. Lawmakers say the law will help keep families together. Starting today, the government will be prohibited, in most cases, from subpoenaing members of the news media to testify, produce or disclose information from confidential sources. .............