New state laws now in effect

OLYMPIA, Wash. — After spending weeks arguing about the budget, Washington lawmakers did finally pass more than 330 laws that are now in effect, including a new tougher boating under the influence law.

Boaters suspected of being drunk can no longer refuse to take a breathalyzer.  If they do, it could be a $1,000 fine.  Boating under the influence will now also be a gross misdemeanor, carrying a maximum penalty of about a year in jail and a five-thousand dollar fine.

Here are some of the other new laws:

Movie theaters with four or fewer screens will now be allowed to sell alcohol.

You won’t have to be friends with your boss, at least not on social media sites like Facebook.  Washington lawmakers have decided employers cannot demand you “friend” them as part of the interview process, or to check up on what you’re doing online.

The Washington State Patrol will keep a gun offender registry.  However, unlike the sex offender registry, the gun offender list will not be public.  It is meant to be a law enforcement tool only.

State lawmakers also want to make sure dropped pot is picked up properly.  If an employee at a store with a pharmacy finds pot on the ground, police must be called to come get the pot to dispose of it.

KIRO