January brings an influx of California new laws 2024, varying from seemingly inconsequential to potentially impactful changes. While the designation of the state bat and mushroom might not significantly alter daily life, several other laws could notably affect various aspects of life in the state.
Check out the California new laws 2024
At Home:
One significant change arrives with Assembly Bill 1033, enabling Californians to buy and sell accessory dwelling units (ADUs) akin to condominiums. This aims to mitigate the severe housing shortage by providing more opportunities for homeownership.
Another noteworthy law, Assembly Bill 1346, plans to phase out the sale of small gas-powered engines used in yard tools, such as leaf blowers and lawn mowers, starting in 2024. This measure aligns with the state’s transition towards cleaner energy and reduced pollution.
At Work:
Starting January 1st, California’s minimum wage escalates to $16 per hour. Concurrently, certain sectors, including fast-food workers and healthcare employees, will observe wage increases under separate legislations.
Senate Bill 616 brings a welcome change by ensuring workers receive a minimum of five paid sick days, an increase from the previous three days. However, this policy has faced opposition from larger employers.
Another notable law, Senate Bill 848, allows workers in companies with a minimum of five employees to take up to five days off to grieve a “reproductive loss,” encompassing miscarriages, failed adoptions, or unsuccessful assisted reproduction. This bill permits up to 20 days per year for reproductive bereavement leave, extending eligibility to both parents.
At School:
Assembly Bill 446 introduces a requirement for cursive handwriting instruction in elementary schools, emphasizing the cognitive benefits of handwriting.
Another significant change involves Assembly Bill 873, which mandates public school students to undergo media literacy courses. These courses aim to equip students with skills to discern between fake news and authentic sources, acknowledging the influence of social media on younger generations.
On the Road:
Assembly Bill 645 grants certain cities, including Los Angeles, the authority to install speed cameras near schools, high-crash streets, and areas notorious for street racing. The legislation imposes fines ranging from $50 to $500 for speeding violations.
Additionally, Assembly Bill 2773 enforces a requirement for police officers to state the reason for a traffic stop before initiating any questioning. This legislation aims to curtail “pretextual stops,” where minor infractions serve as a pretext for further investigations.
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