New laws may not be on the books for very long

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A host of new laws will take effect around the country on Jan. 1, but some may not be on the books for long.

The laws will kick in just as newly elected lawmakers start work. And if Republican majorities succeed in repealing some statutes, the result may be some sudden U-turns.

Before the November elections, Democrats controlled legislatures in 27 states. Republicans were in charge of just 14. After the nationwide GOP sweep, Republicans will control 26 state legislatures starting in 2011.

The GOP in Wisconsin wants to undo a new consumer law banning loans that use auto titles as collateral. In New Hampshire, the party wants to kill a new gun-rights law and replace it with one that gives gun owners more authority to use deadly force.