Major Legal Changes Sweep Across US as 2025 Begins: From AI Protection to Worker Benefits
The new year has ushered in a wave of significant legislative changes across the United States, with states implementing groundbreaking laws addressing everything from prenatal care to artificial intelligence regulation.
New York leads with revolutionary pregnancy benefits
New York has become the first state in the nation to mandate paid prenatal leave, requiring employers to provide 20 hours of dedicated sick leave for pregnancy-related medical care, separate from regular sick time.
“Hardworking New Yorkers shouldn’t have to worry about how they’ll buy food or pay rent when they need time off to care for a new child or family member with a serious health condition, or get injured on the job. Likewise, business owners who have their own bills to pay and families to support also need affordable solutions,” Governor Hochul said.
“I’m proud that New York State is finding ways to put money back into the pockets of workers and those who employ them so both the economy and the people can thrive.”
California takes bold steps in tech regulation
AI Protection for Performers
California has established itself as a pioneer in AI regulation, implementing new protections for actors and performers against unauthorized use of their digital likenesses in audio and video productions.
Child influencer protection
In a groundbreaking move to protect young social media stars, California now requires parents to set aside 15% of their children’s earnings from social media influencing in protected accounts, accessible only upon reaching adulthood.
Student privacy safeguards
The third new law in California delineates that teachers and school staff will not “out” a student’s gender identity or orientation forcefully. Nevertheless, parents can still request for school records. Teachers and staff are however protected from any retaliation that might stem from refusing to disclose children’s preferences.
Florida tackles youth social media access
Following Australia’s lead, Florida has introduced restrictions on social media access for young users, prohibiting accounts for children under 14. While the law takes effect on January 1, enforcement will begin in February 2025.
Nationwide wage increases
The new year brings significant changes to worker compensation across the country. According to Axios, 21 states and 48 cities and counties are implementing minimum wage increases. This trend points toward a broader shift in labor compensation, with projections suggesting that by 2027, approximately half of U.S. workers will reside in states with a $15 minimum wage requirement.
