New Laws Take Effect in 2025: AI, Abortion, Guns, and More
As the new year approaches, a slew of new laws are set to take effect across the United States. From artificial intelligence to abortion, guns, and marijuana, many states have passed legislation that will impact citizens’ daily lives. Here are some of the most notable laws taking effect in 2025:
Artificial Intelligence:
* California will restrict the use of digital replicas of Hollywood actors and performers without permission, allowing estates of deceased performers to sue over unauthorized AI use.
* Parents who profit from social media posts featuring their children will be required to set aside some earnings for their young influencers.
Abortion:
* Delaware will require the state employee health plan and Medicaid plans to cover abortions with no deductible, copayments, or other cost-sharing requirements.
Guns:
* Minnesota will prohibit guns with “binary triggers” that allow for more rapid fire.
* Delaware will add colleges and universities to the list of school zones where guns are prohibited, with exceptions for law enforcement and security personnel.
Marijuana:
* Kentucky will become the latest state to legalize medical marijuana, allowing patients to use cannabis for qualifying conditions such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain.
Minimum Wages:
* Over 20 states will raise their minimum wages in January, with the highest minimum wages in Washington, California, and Connecticut topping $16 an hour.
Social Media:
* Several states have passed laws restricting social media use, including Florida’s ban on children under 14 having social media accounts and Tennessee’s requirement for parental consent for minors to open accounts.
Other notable laws taking effect in 2025 include:
* Oregon’s law making drug use on public transit a misdemeanor crime of interfering with public transportation.
* Missouri’s law penalizing handheld cellphone use, with fines and imprisonment for repeat offenders.
* Montana’s decision to remain the only state without a ban on texting while driving.
* Arizona’s repeal of a law allowing cities and towns to impose taxes on monthly rent.
* Alabama’s tax credits for businesses that help employees with child care costs.
* Kansas’s elimination of its 2% sales tax on groceries and reduction of individual income taxes.
These new laws are a result of legislation passed this year and ballot measures approved by voters. Some face legal challenges, but they will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the lives of citizens across the United States.
