Does anyone know the status of the dividend tax laws.

You can probably find what you want over on the Tax Strategies board.
http://boards.fool.com/Messages.asp?&bid=100155

In a nutshell, domestic and certain foreign dividends are taxed at 5% or 15% if the stock is held for a minimum holding period. Mutual fund dividends may or may not qualify for the reduced rate based on the holding period within the mutual fund and the holding period of the mutual fund shares as well. Money market fund, bond funds, REITs and most other investments do not qualify for the reduced tax rate.

If you have a specific question, ask on Tax Strategies.

Ira