By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
New laws to help steer state in 2025
state seal

As California ushers in 2025, several new laws are set to take effect, impacting various aspects of daily life. Following is a summary of key legislation.

 

Parking Restrictions Near Crosswalks

Assembly Bill 413, known as the “Daylighting to Save Lives Bill,” prohibits parking within 20 feet of crosswalks to enhance pedestrian visibility and safety. Violations will incur a $64 fine, with enforcement beginning Jan. 1, 2025, following a grace period until March 1, 2025.

 

Increased Minimum Auto Insurance Liability

Senate Bill 1107 raises the minimum auto insurance liability limits. Effective Jan. 1, 2025, the minimum coverage for bodily injury or death per person increases from $15,000 to $30,000, per accident from $30,000 to $60,000, and property damage from $5,000 to $15,000.

 

Cannabis Cafés Legalization

Assembly Bill 1775 permits licensed cannabis dispensaries and lounges to prepare and sell non-cannabis food and beverages and host live performances, akin to Amsterdam-style cafés. This law takes effect on Jan. 1, 2025, aiming to boost revenues for legal dispensaries.

 

Protections for Child Social Media Influencers

New legislation requires parents who earn income from social media content featuring their children to set aside a portion of the earnings in a trust for the minors. At least 15 percent of such income must be saved until the child turns 18, protecting against financial exploitation.

 

Employment Law Updates

Minimum Wage Increase: The statewide minimum wage rises by 50 cents to $16.50 per hour for all employers, regardless of size, effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Anti-Discrimination Measures: Senate Bill 1137 incorporates the concept of intersectionality into California’s anti-discrimination laws, prohibiting discrimination based on the combination of two or more protected characteristics.

 

Housing Development Streamlining

Senate Bill 684 streamlines the approval process for subdividing multifamily lots, allowing property owners to create up to 10 housing units on urban lots under five acres. This law, effective July 1, 2024, aims to address the housing crisis by facilitating the development of smaller housing projects.

 

Same-Sex Marriage Constitutional Amendment

Following voter approval of Proposition 3 in November 2024, the California Constitution is amended to explicitly recognize the fundamental right to marry, effectively repealing the language from Proposition 8 that banned same-sex marriage. This amendment takes effect in 2025.

 

These legislative changes reflect California’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety, protect individual rights, and address social issues.