Artificial intelligence, abortion rights, gun control, marijuana legislation, and minimum wage increases are among the influential topics generating new laws slated to take effect in 2025 across various states. As a result of either legislative action or voter ballot measures, numerous laws will be implemented in January, while some face ongoing legal challenges.
In California, progress is being made in regulating the artificial intelligence sector and managing the influence of social media stars. New legislation will prohibit the unauthorized use of digital likenesses of well-known actors and performers, allowing estates of deceased performers to take legal action against any unauthorized AI exploitation. Additionally, parents who profit from social media endorsements featuring their children are required to reserve a portion of their earnings for their young influencers and face lawsuits if they fail to comply.
Multiple states are encountering legal disputes over new social media laws. In Florida, a law prohibiting children under 14 from maintaining social media accounts, which mandates parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds, is on hold due to a lawsuit. Similarly, Tennessee’s law requiring minors to have parental consent for creating social media accounts is being challenged by an industry group. Furthermore, new regulations enforcing age verification on pornographic websites are also under legal scrutiny. California has introduced measures targeting political deepfakes, including laws mandating the removal of deceptive political content from major social media platforms.
In a historic move, California will enforce a law that prevents school districts from requiring that parents are notified if their children change their gender identity. This initiative was pushed by Democratic lawmakers aiming to counter policies already adopted by several school districts.
The landscape of abortion coverage is evolving in several states following the Supreme Court’s decision in 2022 to overturn the federal right to abortion. Delaware has passed legislation that mandates its state employee health plan and Medicaid to cover abortions without requiring any out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles or co-pays.
In terms of gun legislation, a new law in Minnesota bans firearms equipped with “binary triggers,” which increase firing speed. Meanwhile, Delaware has made it illegal to carry guns on college campuses, permitting only those in official capacities, such as law enforcement officers, to do so.
Kentucky is joining the growing number of states permitting medical marijuana use, requiring individuals to obtain a certification from a healthcare provider for a qualifying condition like cancer or chronic pain. This change brings the total number of states that allow medical marijuana to nearly 80.
Over twenty states will increase minimum wages starting in January, with the highest rates occurring in Washington, California, and Connecticut, reaching over $16 per hour. Delaware will see the most significant hike, with a $1.75 increase, bringing its minimum wage to $15 per hour, while Nebraska will add $1.50 based on a voter-approved measure.
Oregon has enacted a new law that classifies drug use on public transit as a misdemeanor, responding to increasing safety concerns among transit officials and riders. Missouri plans to implement penalties for illegal cellphone use while driving, starting with fines and escalating to severe consequences if an accident occurs as a result. Notably, Montana remains the only state without a ban on texting while driving.
Arizona is set to eliminate taxes on monthly rents, which could cost the state around $230 million in annual municipal revenue. In contrast, Alabama will introduce tax incentives for companies aiding employees with childcare expenses. Kansas is abolishing its 2% sales tax on groceries and lowering individual income taxes, which is expected to save taxpayers approximately $320 million annually.
Lastly, in Oklahoma, legislation has been enacted to expand voting rights for individuals with criminal convictions whose sentences have been fulfilled or commuted. Former state Senator George Young emphasized the importance of reintegrating citizens into the community post-incarceration and ensuring their active participation in the democratic process.
