Bluegrass Times

Hundreds of new state laws took effect across the nation this week, including minimum wage increases, new internet privacy rules, gun-related regulations, marijuana legalization and new tests on whether workers can be classified as independent contractors.

In the area of gun regulations, Colorado, Hawaii and Nevada have joined other states in enacting so-called red-flag laws, which allow courts to take away firearms from people designated a danger to communities or themselves. And Illinois became to most recent state to legalize recreational use of marijuana.

In Kentucky, the state's new laws will take effect in July due to how the legislative calendar works. The state this year will begin mandating vision tests for all motor vehicle renewals, according to media reports. Kentucky will also begin offering ignition lock systems to those facing drinking and driving charges.