The US Dollar Index (DXY) measures the value of the Dollar against a basket of currencies on a trade-weighted basis. The index started in March 1973 with a base value of 100. Since then, it has made a high of 164.72 in February 1985, and a low of 70.69 in March 2008.
Coal tar, which is distilled from coal, has been used in dandruff shampoo for decades. But it is now banned in all consumer goods in Europe because of health concerns. California, using its tough anti-toxics law, would be the first state in the country to restrict use of the substance.
California would become the first state to make it illegal for youths under 21 to buy tobacco products. In 46 other states and the District of Columbia, the legal age is 18. In Alaska, Alabama and Utah, it's 19. California already is the only state that bans smoking in bars and private workplaces and one of two that prohibit retailers from advertising tobacco within 1,000 feet of schools. The Legislature is expected to raise cigarette taxes this year from 87 cents to $1.52 a pack, highest in the nation.