New NYS laws take effect on January 1st

With the new year comes new New York State laws. Here's what you need to know for 2011.

New laws for the New Year will keep consumers and emergency responders safe in 2011. As of January 1st, a new law requires any business or person that offers rebates to give their customers certain information.

If a rebate isn't given as a check or cash, consumers now have to be told in advance if the rebate will be given in another way; such as store credit, gift certificate or general pre-paid cards. Businesses are also now required by law to let their customers know if any additional fees will occur because of the rebate.

For those of you who use tanning beds, the state has now set guidelines to reduce health risks in regards to safe operations and sanitary standards at the tanning salons. Businesses will be required to post their operating permits as part of the new law. It also prohibits kids under-14 from using the tanning beds; and that kids between the ages of 14 and 18 must have an in-person signed consent letter from a parent before using them.

Also going into effect on the 1st is New York's "Move Over Law." This bill was designed to keep emergency responders and law officers safe. Drivers will now be required to move into the next lane when a police officer, fireman, or first responder is on the sides of the road. You can learn more about that law here.