Starting July 1, several new laws signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom officially went into effect, bringing notable changes that impact residents across the state. These laws address key areas such as consumer protection, healthcare, housing, and public safety.
Here’s a quick rundown of five new laws Californians should be aware of:
1. Minimum Wage Hike
California’s minimum wage will rise to $16.50 per hour statewide beginning January 1, 2025, according to the state’s Department of Industrial Relations. However, many cities and counties have already implemented higher local wages:
- San Francisco & Berkeley: $19.18/hour
- Emeryville: $19.90/hour
- Fremont: $17.75/hour
- Alameda: $17.46/hour
- Milpitas: $18.20/hour
2. Expanded IVF Coverage
Under Senate Bill 729, most health insurance plans in California are now required to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility — including in-vitro fertilization (IVF). This expansion makes fertility treatments more accessible to thousands of families across the state.
3. Crackdown on Online Sale of Stolen Goods
Senate Bill 1144 targets the online sale of stolen merchandise. Online platforms like Amazon must now:
- Collect seller information for high-volume accounts
- Maintain and display a clear anti-theft policy
- Report suspected stolen items to law enforcement
This law aims to reduce retail theft by cutting off resale channels.
4. Rental Cleaning Fee Transparency
Assembly Bill 2202 addresses hidden “junk” fees on short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo. Under the new rule, platforms must:
- Clearly disclose all fees (including cleaning charges) before booking
- Violators may face penalties of up to $10,000
This law promotes upfront pricing and greater transparency for renters.
5. Simpler Subscription Cancellations
Assembly Bill 2863 strengthens consumer rights by requiring companies to:
- Get explicit consent before auto-renewing subscriptions post free-trial
- Provide clear instructions for cancellation
Applies to streaming services (like Netflix), retail platforms (like Amazon), and other recurring subscriptions.
More Changes Californians Should Know
- Mental health resources for students: Schools serving grades 7–12 must print the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on student ID cards.
- CARE Act updates: Senate Bill 42 ensures courts notify families and caregivers during Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act proceedings.
- Nightclub safety: Bars and clubs with Type 48 licenses must offer drink lids to patrons upon request, aiming to reduce drink spiking.
These new policies reflect California’s focus on consumer rights, healthcare access, public safety, and mental health awareness.
