many new oregon laws set to help women

Some of the new laws taking effect in Oregon at the beginning of the year, many of which should, at least theoretically, help protect women:

New batch of Oregon laws take effect in January

In the workplace, for example, “Domestic workers like nannies and housekeepers will be extended several new protections in 2016, including mandatory breaks, paid vacation time and recourse against harassment.” Most domestic works are women and immigrants, who are often exploited and harassed and have few legal protections and avenues of recompense.

Another law going into effect will double the statute of limitations on rape, “allowing prosecution up to 12 years after the crime occurred instead of six,” and if it happens to a minor, they’ll have until 30 to come forward. In addition, “Secretly filming someone in a place of ‘presumed privacy’ — including bathrooms and locker rooms — will be upgraded from a misdemeanor to a felony in 2016.” Because that’s just fucked up and creepy.

And despite all the recent attacks on women’s reproductive rights, “Pharmacists will be allowed to prescribe birth control directly to women, saving them a trip to the doctor’s office, and insurers will be required to cover up to a 12-month supply in one purchase.”

Onwards and upwards!