By: Jenny TangWhen New Year’s Day rolled around, many people most likely were asked the question, “What are your 2019 resolutions?” It may not be a surprise to hear the government has resolutions for the new year, although they typically follow through. From Arizona to Washington, citizens of these states should expect at least a slight change in their daily lifestyles. Since 2009, the federal minimum wage has remained $7.25. A decade later, more than 19 states will be raising their minimum wages to $12, while specific cities such as Seattle will be raising their minimum wages to $15.
Following the enormous number of mass shootings in the United States last year, at least six states are tightening their gun laws. In Oregon, domestic abusers are now banned from owning or purchasing guns, while in six other states (including California, Washington and Hawaii) young adults must now wait three more years until they are 21 to be able to purchase a long gun. In California divorces, pets will now officially be considered as part of the family. Additionally, pet stores now may only legally sell pets from animal shelters and rescue centers, although private breeders still remain an option. Women in California are now legally being included in business, as well. In public corporations, at least one woman must be on the board of directors. In 2021, this number will increase to two or three. Following in Alaska’s footsteps, Vermont will now pay qualified applicants up to $10,000 to relocate and live there. This money is dealt on a first come, first serve basis. In Florida, all former felons, except those convicted of murder or a felony sexual offense, will be allowed to vote again, adding at least 1.4 million people to the voting polls. In an attempt to discourage smoking at a young age, anyone in New York looking to purchase cigarettes must now be at least 21 years of age. The same law is being enforced in Massachusetts. In order to manage the opioid crisis and protect innocent aquatic life, New York is also issuing a law in which citizens must return leftover medication from their prescriptions. Utah now has the strictest Blood Alcohol Content standard in the nation at 0.05 percent compared to 0.08 percent in all other states. Similarly, If a drunk driver hits and kills another person, they can expect to be charged with criminal homicide. In Illinois, fashion lovers are in luck. As of January 1, “blaze pink” is now an available color for hunters. This new change will also help hunters stand out in fall when orange is not an unusual color in forests or fields. Finally, in Utah, children are expected to know how to read and write in both print and cursive by fifth grade.
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Co-Editor - Adith GopalHello, readers! My name is Adith, and I am a senior and current Co-Editor of the Wilson Paw Print. I hope you can enjoy getting informed on some current news here at Wilson and abroad! If you have any questions about myself or the newspaper as a whole, email me at [email protected]! Co-Editor- Alexa MonosMy name is Alexa Monos and I am a co-editor of the Wilson Paw Print. If you have any questions or ideas about the newspaper or wish to get involved email me at
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