As 2025 dawns, a tidal wave of new laws is set to reshape our daily lives. Are you ready? I’m usually curious to see the year in review that we are leaving behind, but not this morning. I’m looking at— hold your breath— new laws that you and I must follow as of midnight, January 1, 2025.
New State Laws Take Effect in 2025
Curious about what’s changing in 2025? A quick search for ‘new laws in [your state] 2025’ will reveal changes that might affect you. What? You didn’t know your state and federal legislatures passed many laws while you were at work/school/taking care of others? Today is a good day to determine what laws have been passed. They are different for every state. Some states are dealing with marijuana use. Others have changed state employment laws. Oh, there’s the issue of taxes and more taxes. Just check your state out. My state has 293 new laws that take effect at midnight, like rules for digital driver’s licenses, minimum wage requirements, and flood zone regulations. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the laws that affect you.
Federal Laws in 2025: Remember the “Riders”
While we’re discussing changes, please note that when the federal government passes a law, we hear about it. What is less known are the various “riders” attached to federal bills that become law. Those may shock you. Let’s say that Congress passes a bill about x,y,z. To get enough votes to pass that bill, they negotiate a, b, and c to go with it. You only hear about x,y, and z —until later.
Be Prepared and Aware in the New Year
The year 2025 is downloading. Or is it uploading? Whatever the case, it’s a heavy load of laws! As engaged citizens, let’s step into the new year prepared and aware!
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. 🇺🇸
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