The new laws taking effect in 2025 in the U.S. address a range of pressing issues, many of which are driven by recent legislation and voter-approved ballot measures.
California is taking strong action against AI with new laws that prohibit the unauthorized use of digital replicas of performers and allow their estates to file lawsuits. The laws also require parents who profit from social media posts featuring their children to set aside earnings for the children. Other states, such as Florida and Tennessee, are imposing social media restrictions for minors, but these face legal challenges.
Several new laws focus on abortion, gun control, and marijuana. Delaware has passed an abortion law covering employee health plans, while Minnesota bans rapid-fire guns with binary triggers. Kentucky is joining the states that allow medical marijuana. Delaware and Oregon are expanding gun-free zones, and some states are raising the minimum wage, particularly in Washington, California, and Connecticut.
Arizona is repealing the rental tax, and Kansas is eliminating sales tax on groceries and cutting income taxes. Missouri is tightening restrictions on cellphone use while driving, and Oklahoma is restoring voting rights for some felons.
These laws reflect ongoing political battles, and their implementation is expected to depend on various legal challenges.
