New Year, New Laws 2016

Here's a look at some of the new laws that will be taking effect in 2016. 

Electronic Insurance: Jan. 5

Drivers pulled over by the police will be able to show proof of their auto insurance on a phone or another mobile device instead of having to provide a hard copy.

Service Animal Protections: Jan. 18
Makes it a crime to deny entry or service to a person using a service animal
Makes it a crime to assault a service animal
Service dogs exempt from licensing fees
Makes it a misdemeanor to falsely represent a service animal
Allows veterans to have a service animal for PTSD

Civil Forfeiture Changes: Jan. 18
Law enforcement will have to adhere to new reporting requirements and meet a higher evidentiary standard for seizing and taking ownership of people's property
Agencies that seize or forfeit property will have to give detailed reports to state police every year
Will require a judge to find "clear and convincing" evidence that it was related to a crime

Powdered Alcohol Ban: Jan. 26
Federal regulators approved the sale of powdered alcohol in March, but state lawmakers became concerned and passed a ban to prohibit the sale, use or possession of powdered alcohol