7 New Laws in 2015

January 1st brought 930 new California laws which are enforceable in the new year. We’d like to share some of the new and relevant laws for 2015 that may affect you and your business activities. Here are 7 new federal and California laws that took effect January 1st.

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7 New Laws for 2015

  1. Driver’s Licensing

Experts expect more than a million applications for California driver’s licenses to flood the DMV offices following new laws allowing non-U.S. citizens without documentation to get driver’s licenses.

  1. Standard Mileage Rate

The standard rate for business mileage has risen from 56 cents in 2014 to 57.5 cents per mile in 2015. The rate for charitable organizations is now 14 cents per mile. The standard mileage rate is adjusted following a yearly survey of current conditions.

  1. Massage Therapy

Massage therapists certified by the California Massage Therapy Council now have the right to practice anywhere in California, free from the need to obtain massage permits from any city or county. The Massage Therapy Act aims to standardize certification in the industry and limit the abuses of unlicensed massage parlors and potential prostitution. It raises the standards of the industry and requires more education for practitioners.

  1. Affordable Care Act Tax Provisions

This new law determines which tax credits your business may be eligible for based on its size. Companies with fewer than 25 employees classified as “full-time” may be able to apply for a Small Business Healthcare Tax Credit.

  1. Photo Protections

Last year, California laws were passed protecting those who had naked or inappropriate photos posted online without their consent, but they did not include photos taken by the victim. This new law allows victims to file a civil suit for damages against the perpetrator even if the photo was taken by the victim, provided that the photo was intended to be private.

  1. LGBT Cultural Competency for Healthcare Providers

LGBT cultural competency now extends to healthcare. Physicians and surgeons are now required to develop and update standards regarding proper care and communication with LGBT individuals. These provisions cover the transgender, intersex, gay, lesbian and bisexual communities.

  1. Care Homes

Assisted-living homes for the elderly licensed by the state face new and steeper fines if they violate California standards. This new law was enacted after multiple failures at homes which brought to light several violations.

For advice with your business and how these new California laws may affect you, contact your experienced team at Structure Law Group today. Happy New Year from Structure Law Group!

 

About Structure Law Group

Structure Law Group is a San Jose based firm that specializes in business issues including business formations, commercial contracts and litigation.