Every year, new laws go into effect that may impact your daily life, work, and community. Being informed about these changes can help you make smart decisions, avoid penalties, and protect your rights.
As we step into 2025, here are some of the most important legal updates and laws you should know about, both nationally and locally:
National Updates
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Student Loan Repayment Relief
The Secure 2.0 Act continues to expand, now offering more flexible employer contributions to retirement accounts for employees repaying student loans. This change encourages long-term savings while tackling debt.
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Increased Access to Over-the-Counter Medications
Following the FDA’s 2024 approval of Opill, the first over-the-counter oral contraceptive, more pharmacies nationwide are now stocking this product, making birth control more accessible.
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Data Privacy Protections
A new federal law strengthens consumer protections by requiring companies to disclose data breaches within 30 days and offering free credit monitoring for affected individuals.
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Expanded Tax Credit for Electric Vehicles
The 2025 tax credit now includes a broader range of electric vehicles, making it more affordable for consumers to adopt sustainable transportation.
New York State Updates
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Minimum Wage Increase
As of January 1, 2025, minimum wage rates have risen again:
- $17 per hour in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County.
- $16 per hour in the rest of the state.
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LGBTQ+ Protections in Healthcare
New provisions expand anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ patients in all healthcare settings statewide, ensuring equal access to treatment.
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Affordable Childcare Initiatives
Subsidies have increased to help working families afford childcare, with additional funding allocated to expand daycare programs in underserved areas.
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“Freelance Isn’t Free Act” Expansion
Freelance workers now benefit from higher penalties against employers who fail to pay on time, further safeguarding their rights.
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Safer Streets for Cyclists and Pedestrians
New traffic laws mandate expanded bike lanes and stricter enforcement of speed limits in urban areas, aiming to reduce accidents and fatalities.
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Public School Menstrual Products
Building on 2024’s non-public school initiative, free menstrual products are now required in all public schools statewide.
New York City-Specific Updates
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Increased Rideshare Licensing Requirements
TLC has updated requirements for drivers, including additional safety training and stricter background check regulations.
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Expanded Congestion Pricing Zones
Drivers entering specific areas in Manhattan will now face updated tolls to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
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Holiday Pay for Gig Workers
New regulations require certain app-based platforms to provide holiday pay for drivers working on federal holidays, including New Year’s Day.
New Jersey Updates
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Minimum Wage Adjustment
The state minimum wage has increased to $15.50 per hour for most workers, keeping up with inflation and living costs.
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Access to Birth Control
Pharmacists are now permitted to prescribe hormonal contraceptives directly, removing another barrier to reproductive healthcare.
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Domestic Violence Protection
New legislation broadens the definition of domestic violence to include digital harassment, ensuring victims of online abuse can seek legal protection.
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Police Accountability Measures
All New Jersey police officers are now required to complete annual de-escalation training and adhere to stricter misconduct reporting standards.
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Telemarketing Regulations
The “Seinfeld Bill” has been updated to require telemarketers to display their business information on caller ID systems, improving transparency for consumers.
Additional Resources
For more information on how these laws may impact you, visit:
