Summary
New laws in California taking effect in 2026 include increasing the minimum wage, reducing the cost of insulin, requiring gender-neutral restrooms in schools, and more. These laws also cover areas like cat declawing, car purchase protections, plastic bag bans, and AI regulation. Governor Gavin Newsom signed these bills, which aim to tackle issues such as affordability and transparency.
Key Facts
- California will raise the minimum wage from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour in 2026.
- Insulin co-pays will be capped at $35 per month for large health insurers.
- Public schools must have at least one gender-neutral restroom.
- Law enforcement officers will face restrictions on wearing face masks and must show identification.
- Declawing cats for nonmedical reasons will be banned.
- Consumers can return cars bought from dealers for a full refund within three days.
- Single-use plastic bags will be banned, and stores can only provide recycled paper bags.
- AI laws will require disclosures for chatbots and safeguards for minors.
- Landlords must provide refrigerators and stoves in rental properties.
- Sexual assault survivors can file lawsuits for two years starting in 2026, even if the statute of limitations has passed.
