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The legislative activity (July 2011) reported below was prepared by NECA’s intern as a service to those in the carwash industry. This special service is an example of what we can together that we cannot do individually. If you are not already a member of NECA, we invite you to join us.

MAINE
No New Legislative Activity

MASSACHUSETTS
HB 1398: An Act Establishing Paid Sick Days: This bill provides employees a minimum of 7 paid sick days throughout the year. These sick days may be used for the care of the employee’s child, spouse or parent in addition to their own self care. Employees shall accrue the sick days at a rate of one hour of pay for every 30 hours worked up to the maximum 7 days. This bill has received considerable media attention over the month of July and is seen as having a strong likelihood of passing. Full text of the bill can be found at http://www.malegislature.gov/Bills/187/House/H01398

HB 3546: An Act Relative to the Definition of An Employee: This bill clarifies the difference between an “employee” and a “freelancer.” Under the bill, a freelancer must be (1) an independent contractor and (2) contract with multiple entities and (3) not be coerced into signing a contract. The bill than instructs the Department of Labor to promulgate additional regulations to protect freelancers. Full text of the bill, including its history, can be found by going to http://www.malegislature.gov/Bills/187/House/H03546

HB 3556: An Act Relative to Promote Energy Efficiency: Under this bill the sale of equipment to businesses that reduce energy use of a building would be exempt from the state sales tax. Text of the bill can be found at http://www.malegislature.gov/Bills/187/House/H03556

NEW HAMPSHIRE
No New Legislative Activity

RHODE ISLAND
Expected Rulemaking: Though not created yet the Department of Environmental Management expects to promulgate regulations in several areas by the end of the year. This includes establishing minimum standards relating to the location, design, construction and maintenance of onsite wastewater treatment centers. Contact information is listed as Russ Chanteauneuf 401-222-4700 x 7700. The DEM also plans a major revision and update of all aspects of the rules covering the underground injection control program and the storm water manual. The contact is listed as Ernie Panciera 401-222-4700 x7603.

VERMONT
No New Legislative Activity