Good news: You can opt out of Affordable Care Act. Bad news: the penalty is large ($12,000 for family of five)

For a family of five, the penalty could be as high as $12,240 for the 2014 tax year, experts say. And for many people, the penalty will rise sharply in 2015 and 2016.

The massive health-care changes passed in 2010 are phasing in, and this is the first year most Americans must have approved health insurance. Those who don't will owe a penalty under the Individual Shared Responsibility Provision. It's due with your income taxes, payable by April 15, 2015.

Article here (via taxprof blog). 

Michigan Senate proposes higher penalties for animal abusers

Michigan lawmakers have voted to increase criminal penalties for people who abuse animals and extend the prohibition to include breeders and pet shop operators.

Article here.

Getting caught texting and driving has few financial consequenes

Texting while driving is now more dangerous than drinking and driving, but has fewer penalties . . . 
article here. 

From the article: it is a primary offense to text and drive, which means the cops can pull you over if they nab you doing it. But if you get caught, the fine is $100 for the first offense and $200 for the second.
And here’s the kicker: There are no points on your driving record.