Eighteen new Minnesota laws go into effect on Wednesday. Among them, laws that: expand the list of illegal synthetic drugs; create stiffer penalties for neglecting vulnerable adults; and offer additional options for overwhelmed parents who intend to abandon their babies.

The Republican controlled House and Senate are looking to make nearly a dozen changes this year, but without Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton's approval. Lawmakers can make this happen by passing legislation that puts an amendment on the November ballot. KARE 11 reports the same sex marriage legislation is the only amendment on this year's ballot right now, but others being considered include Voter ID laws, Right to Work issues, abortion restrictions and tax limitations.

House lawmakers unanimously approved the legislation Monday. It requires both parents be notified if their child is a victim of possible abuse or neglect. The Senate also approved the bill.