There are a lot of changes that come with a new year. You may make new resolutions regarding your health, relationships, career and family. Additionally, a host of new laws tend to go into effect. There are plenty of new laws in New York that may impact you without you even being aware of them.
That is why it is vital to keep track of how the law changes over time. Here is an assessment of some of the most significant changes to New York laws in 2019.
Prescription drug returns
As of Jan. 6, physical and mail-order pharmacies must provide customers with the opportunity to drop off unused prescription drugs. Pharmacies must provide consumers with a no-cost and secure option, such as pre-paid envelopes or free drop boxes.
This is important because many unused drugs are the subject of misuse, abuse and addiction. Drugs like opioid pain relievers, amphetamines and sleep medications can not only cause dangerous health effects, but they can carry harsh criminal consequences too. If you are caught possessing, using or selling prescription drugs that do not belong to you, you may be at risk of a criminal conviction. Thanks to the Drug Take Back Act, it is easier than ever to dispose of unused medications. This also prevents people from flushing drugs down the toilet and harming sewers.
Prison body scanners
As of Jan. 30, prisons across New York can utilize body scanners to find hidden weapons. Previously, prisons could only use these scanners for medical reasons. This new law permits prisons to use body scanners to find weapons because more prisoners are attacking prison guards with illegally-obtained ceramic blades. Metal detectors are unable to detect these weapons.
There are so many other noncriminal laws concerning issues such as the minimum wage, diaper changing tables and property tax relief. You can read more about the new laws here.