New Rules & Regulations For 2012

The new year brings new rules and regulations for many sectors of the economy, The Hill reports. New federal rules for light bulb efficiency began phasing in on Monday, despite fierce opposition from congressional Republicans. They had secured a measure in the 2012-spending bill, that de-funds enforcement of the regulation. But the regulations themselves remain in effect. They require traditional incandescent light bulbs to be 30 percent more efficient starting this year. Other new federal rules include a 3.6 percent Social Security cost-of-living Increase for federal retirees. Truck and bus drivers face a $2,700 federal fine for using cellphones while driving.