Hot Issues This Week

Business

LOUISIANA Gov. John Bel Edwards signs SB 147, which creates a framework for self-driving delivery robots to carry packages, food and other items on Pelican State streets. Under the new law, delivery devices must yield to pedestrians, cannot obstruct traffic or transport hazardous materials.

Education

TEXAS Gov. Greg Abbott (R) signs SB 1385, a bill that allows college athletes to profit from the use of their name, image or likeness. Similar new laws take effect this year in ALABAMA, ARIZONA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, MISSISSIPPI, and NEW MEXICO. At least 12 more states have passed laws that will go into effect by 2024.

The OHIO Senate approves SB 187, which would allow college athletes to profit from the use of their name, image or likeness. It moves to the House.

The WISCONSIN Assembly approves a pair of bills (AB 195 and AB 196) that together will bar transgender athletes from competing in girls’ or women’s sports. They move to the Senate.

The CONNECTICUT Senate approves SB 1202, a comprehensive budget bill that includes a provision that will bar schools from receiving state money if they use Native American mascot names without the written consent of those groups. It moves to Gov. Ned Lamont (D) for consideration.

Environment

The MAINE House and Senate approve HB 65, a bill that would require the Maine Public Employees Retirement System to divest from fossil fuel companies. The measure moves to Gov. Janet Mills (D), who has not indicated whether she will sign it into law.

Social Policy

TEXAS Gov. Greg Abbott (R) signs HB 1280, which would outlaw abortion in the Lone Star State in the event that the Supreme Court of the United States “wholly or partly” overturns the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized the procedure. 

OREGON Gov. Kate Brown (D) sigs HB 2574, which legalizes what’s known as natural organic reduction, or human composting. It goes into effect on July 1, 2022.

LOUISIANA Gov. John Bel Edwards signs HB 652, which decriminalizes possession of marijuana. The law still imposes a fine on those who have up to 14 ounces in their possession, but does away with mandatory jail time.

— By RICH EHISEN