Several new laws took effect in Nevada as of the start of the year, including tax-free feminine hygiene products and an overhaul of state campaign finance rules.
In November, voters decided to exempt feminine hygiene products from sales and use tax until at least 2028.
Eliminating the tax on tampons and sanitary napkins is estimated to cost the state between $5 million and $7 million a year. Proponents of the measure argued that the products should be treated like groceries and other necessities.
The change in campaign finance reporting requires candidates and political action committees to offer more information about their fundraising and spending, as well as more transparency about credit card expenses.
The state of Utah enacted the nation’s toughest drunken driving standards this week. Just one day before New Year’s Eve, anyone driving with a blood alcohol content of .05 or higher can be charged with a DUI.
The national standard for blood alcohol content is .08, but Utah lawmakers passed the change during the 2018 legislative session. The National Transportation Safety Board began recommending states pass the change in 2013, saying it will reduce fatal accidents caused by drunk driving.
Opponents, however, argue the change inappropriately targets casual drinkers rather than dangerous heavy drinkers or those with repeat drunken-driving offenses.