DEADLINE EXTENDED FOR CLOSING HOME PURCHASE TO QUALIFY FOR HOMEBUYER CREDIT

Relief has been provided to taxpayers who couldn't meet a key June 30, 2010, closing date for qualifying for the homebuyer credit. As a general rule, both the regular first-time homebuyer credit of $8,000 and the reduced credit of $6,500 for long-term residents generally expired for homes purchased after Apr. 30, 2010. However, if a written binding contract to purchase a principal residence was entered into before May 1, 2010, the credit could be claimed if the purchase closed before July 1, 2010. Under the relief measure, if a written binding contract to purchase a principal residence was entered into before May 1, 2010, the credit may be claimed if the purchase is closed before Oct. 1, 2010. Thus, this extension allows homebuyers who signed a contract no later than the April 30th deadline to complete their closing by the end of September.

OREGON HANDS-FREE DRIVING

House Bill 2377 prohibits all drivers from using a mobile communication device while operating a motor vehicle.

A mobile communication device is defined as "a text messaging device or a wireless, two-way communication device designed to receive and transmit voice or text communication".

Like all hands-free laws the usual exceptions include emergencies, safety workers, persons 18 years of age or older using a "hands-free accessory" and emergency services personnel.

To read the full text of this new law, please go to:
http://www.leg.state.or.us/09reg/measpdf/hb2300.dir/hb2377.a.pdf

(From DrivingLaws.org)

AGENT AUTHORITY TO HOSPITALIZE PRINCIPAL FOR DEMENTIA

Senate Bill 16 grants authority to health care representatives to consent to the hospitalization of an individual for a period up to, but not to exceed, 18 days for the treatment of behavior associated with, and caused by, dementia.

The goal of the bill is to reduce or eliminate dangerous behavior caused by dementia.

To read the full text of this new bill, please go to:
http://www.leg.state.or.us/09reg/measpdf/sb0001.dir/sb0016.en.pdf

COURT FEE CHANGES

House Bill 2287 increased the cost of filings for all courts throughout Oregon. In the case of probate filing fees, the bill added a new fee associated with the filing of any annual or final account. In addition, there is a new $10.00 fee for any ex-parte order or judgment submitted to the court for signature. These new fees became effective on October 1, 2009.

To read the full text of this bill, please go to:
http://www.leg.state.or.us/09reg/measpdf/hb2200.dir/hb2287.en.pdf