18 new laws take effect on Jan. 1

April M. Washington
Rocky Mountain News

Colorado will ring in 2006 with 18 new laws in addition to fireworks and renditions of Auld Lang Syne. Topping the list is a new law aimed at preventing children from becoming the casualties of nasty divorces and domestic disputes. Another new measure would make it easier for young adults to remain on their parent's health insurance until age 25 - even if they do not attend college.

Senate Bill 181 will bar genetic testing to establish paternity after a divorce or legal separation. State lawmakers set out to "protect the family structure" and children three years ago after a man attempted to skirt child support by questioning the paternity of his daughter 11 years after her birth, said state Rep. Cheri Jahn, D-Jefferson County, a primary sponsor of the bill.

Source: http://rockymountainnews.com/drmn/local/article/0,1299,DRMN_15_4346100,00.html