Smoking in motor vehicles with children now banned
Smoking in motor vehicles when children under the age of 18 years old are present is now prohibited. The passing of the Smoke-free Environments (Prohibiting Smoking in Motor Vehicles Carrying Children) Amendment Act 2020 has made this an offence.
Police will now have the discretion to issue on-the-spot fines of $50 for those who are caught smoking in cars with children, or they may issue warnings or refer people to stop-smoking agencies.
The Associate Minister of Health, the Hon Jenny Salesa, says that children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of second-hand smoke due to their smaller lungs, higher respiratory rate and more immature immune systems.
‘Triangular’ employment legislation in force
On 27 June 2020, the Employment Relations (Triangular Employment) Amendment Act 2020 came into force. This legislation addresses the situation where a person is employed by one organisation but actually works for a third party business or organisation. Examples of this ‘triangle’ situation are where a person is seconded to another organisation to work for a period, or a recruitment company pays a person’s wages but they are working in another business or in a temporary ‘cover’ position.
Until now, employees have only been able to bring a personal grievance against their employer, not the third party for whom they are doing their day-to-day work. Now, both the employer and third party could be added to the claim (in cases where the behaviour or actions of the third party contributed to the issue), and both could be potentially responsible for providing remedies to the employee.
Looking after your mental health during COVID
The last few months of the COVID pandemic have affected every New Zealander in some way.
As we moved down through Levels 4, 3, 2 and 1 many people found that their mental health deteriorated – to a greater or lesser degree. Whether you’re feeling a bit blue or are experiencing depressive episodes, there are some useful tips on the COVID website here.
- Stay connected
- Stick to routines where possible
- Check in with other people who might need help
- Seek accurate information from legitimate sources
- Don’t be afraid to seek further professional support, and
- Continue existing mental health treatment if possible.
Take care and look after yourselves.
Disclaimer: All the information published in Fineprint is true and accurate to the best of the author’s knowledge. It should not be substituted for legal advice. No liability is assumed by the authors or publisher for losses suffered by any person or organisation relying directly or indirectly on this newsletter. Views expressed are the views of the authors individually and do not necessarily reflect the view of this firm. Articles appearing in Fineprint may be reproduced with prior approval from the editor and credit being given to the source.
Content Copyright © NZ LAW Limited, 2020. Editor Adrienne Olsen, e. adrienne@adroite.co.nz p. 029 286 3650
