Sacramento, CA – As Californians ring in the New Year of 2025, they will also need to adjust to a slew of new laws affecting various aspects of life in the Golden State, from entertainment in Hollywood to the roads and beyond, reflecting broader societal shifts and regulatory adjustments.
Among the significant changes, California introduces pioneering regulations on artificial intelligence within the entertainment industry. Two bills specifically targeting the digital replication of personas safeguard actors past and present. AB 2602 outlaws the unauthorized use of an actor’s voice or likeness, while AB 1836 ensures deceased actors’ estates must consent to the use of their digital imagery.
The realm of transportation sees noteworthy updates as well. AB 413 imposes stricter parking regulations near crosswalks to enhance pedestrian safety, reflecting the state’s commitment to reducing road accidents. Meanwhile, other legislative adjustments include the prohibition contained in SB 1100 against mandating a driver’s license for job applications, and SB 905’s removal of the “locked door loophole,” giving prosecutors greater leeway in auto burglary cases.
The burgeoning cannabis market will experience regulatory expansion through AB 1775, granting local governments the power to permit cannabis retailers to offer freshly prepared foods and drinks, thus broadening the scope of traditional cannabis cafes.
Consumer rights get a boost with AB 2863, which safeguards subscribers of auto-renew services by offering more comprehensive cancellation rights starting in July 2025. Another significant consumer-focused law, AB 375, mandates that food delivery platforms share the first name and a photograph of the delivery person with customers from March 2025.
Enhancements in public safety through legislative action also touch upon digital and physical security. For example, AB 2917 adds weight to restraining order decisions in the context of firearm threats, tightening preventative measures against potential violence.
Homeownership and housing developments receive attention through innovative laws like SB 450, which eases zoning laws to help property owners convert their homes into multiple units. Additionally, AB 2347 extends the response time for eviction notices, providing tenants more leeway to address these matters.
In the tech domain, AB 2515 introduces health-centered legislation banning the sale of menstrual products containing harmful chemicals, indicating a shift towards more stringent consumer health protections.
Labor laws were not left untouched, with SB 988 enhancing the payment rights of independent contractors, ensuring they are paid timely per contractual agreements.
Financial regulations see updates as well, with AB 2017 preventing state-chartered banks from charging fees for attempted withdrawals when accounts have insufficient funds.
In a lighter legislative move, Governor Gavin Newsom has added a touch of nature to California’s official emblems by signing off on the designation of the banana slug as the official state slug, the Dungeness crab as the state crustacean, and the Black abalone as the state seashell.
These laws, sourced from sessions of the California Legislature, not only introduce new regulations but also reflect the dynamic changes within Californian society, addressing emerging technologies and social issues alike.
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