Louisiana lawmakers gave the green light on 22 new laws. The laws became effective on January first of this year. One new law lets 16 year-old’s register to vote, although they still will not be able to vote until age 18. Charlene Meaux Menard with the Registrar of Voters Office for Lafayette Parish, says it’s great to encourage teenagers to vote, but says at sixteen it may just end up costing the taxpayers.

“A person will register. They can move once a month, once a week, or once a year. After a two year span of turning 18, we have to try to find them and that in turn costs money.” said Menard

Several new laws encourage government transparency. One law requires candidates to report the purpose of all spending done from their campaign accounts. State law prohibits spending on anything other than running for election, or holding public office.

Another new law includes students, like at the University of Louisiana Lafayette. Students can now pay a small fee at the DMV to get their University’s logo printed on their license.

One law directly affects smokers. Employees are now required to step at least twenty-five feet away from any state office building before lighting up. Smokers could potentially face a fine from twenty-five to one hundred dollars depending on how many times they are caught. Another new law created more defined guidelines for DWI’s.

“Whats changed is the penalties that the judges and the lawyers have to look at when they’re either pleading a DWI or somebody is found guilty of a DWI.” said State Police M/T Brooks David

Other laws effect state agencies directly, in hopes of keeping the public better informed. Four new laws were added to the list of individual income tax checkoffs. Officials encourage all residents to read over all the new laws.