New year, new laws

Nearly 500 new laws go into effect in Oregon when the new year turns. Here are a few that may matter to you.

By Erica Ryberg

The South County Spotlight, Dec 30, 2009, Updated Dec 30, 2009

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Efforts to curb scrap metal thefts | SB 570

The scrap metal thieves that struck twice in St. Helens in September represented a tiny fraction of a widespread problem. One change the sponsors of this bill — and there were many — are making is an effort to curb the thefts is a waiting period before scrap metal purchasers can pay their vendors with a check mailed to a physical address. The law is too late for Columbia Funeral Home owner John Potter whose donated plaque — to commemorate Sept. 11 — fell prey to scrap metal thieves. “If that helps to deter the happenings, that would be great,” Potter said.

Changing the definition of ‘hazing’ | SB 444

Guess what? Hazing isn’t just a sorority-fraternity thing. And it’s not just a college thing, either. So says Senate Bill 444, which addressed the reality that hazing happens to around 80 percent of college athletes and frequently occurs to high school athletes in pre-season sports camp as well. This law defines the term ‘hazing’ and removes an earlier exemption that athletics enjoyed from the definition of hazing. It also says that student organizations of nearly all stripes aren’t allowed to haze.

New safety restrictions for ATVs | SB 579 and 583

Starting the first of the year, children under the age of 18 need to strap on a motorcycle helmet when they’re riding in or driving all-terrain vehicles that weigh more than 800 pounds. If they’re under 16, they’ll have to be secured with a safety harness or belt as well, even in lighter-weight Class I ATVs. But Columbia County Sheriff Jeff Dickerson said he and his staff don’t have the staffing levels to keep their eyes extra-peeled for offenders.

Protection from garnishments | SB 731

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