February 9, 2025

New State Laws for 2024 – What You Need to Know

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New State laws for 2024 – A comprehensive look at the upcoming legal changes across states, covering areas like taxation, labor regulations, and privacy norms.

New State laws for 2024

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At the start of 2024, many new state laws will kick in. They cover a lot, like gun safety, diversity programs, and telemarketing rules. These legislative updates will really change things. Starting soon, companies need to follow new state regulations in 2024. This includes giving workers more sick days, keeping customer info safer, and being clearer about green advertising.

In 2023, 36 states made fresh voting laws for this year’s elections1. California now bans guns in most public spots. 19 states and D.C. took up red-flag laws to take guns from risky people1. Then, Minnesota and Michigan added their own gun laws for safety1.

With all these policy changes in 2024, everyone needs to be ready. Learn about the new laws and get help when needed. This will make the new year move smoothly.

Key Takeaways

  • Numerous new state laws and provisions will take effect in 2024, impacting daily life and business operations.
  • Changes include gun safety regulations, diversity program bans, telemarketing restrictions, and expanded employee benefits.
  • Businesses must comply with new requirements related to consumer privacy, product advertising, and more.
  • Several states have enacted new voting laws and gun control measures, with practical effects expected in 2024.
  • Staying informed and prepared is essential for navigating the policy changes and ensuring a smooth transition.

Ethics Requirements for Public Officials in Florida

In 2024, Florida’s ethics laws for public officials will see big changes. These changes aim to make officials more open and hold them more accountable. The new law, Senate Bill 774, is the key. It makes elected city officials share more about their financial interests.

Increased Financial Disclosure for Elected City Officials

From January 1, 2024, mayors and others in leadership roles will need to share their finances in a Form 62. They must provide info on where they get money, what they owe, what they own worth more than $1,000, their total net worth, and show federal tax returns too. Those who file these forms can then show a receipt or a verification of their submission with a qualifying officer as they start their term, as per the Code of Ethics2.

Controversial Nature of SB 774

SB 774 has not been well received by some city officials. They say the new financial rules are too much and go too far. However, the majority in both the Senate and the House backed the bill strongly with votes of 35-5 and 113-22.

State Rep. Spencer Roach from North Fort Myers supports the bill. He thinks being open has always been key in Florida politics. He wonders what officials could be hiding if they avoid the new requirements.

Reasons Behind Official Resignations

This new law has caused many officials to resign across Florida. Places like St. Pete Beach, Naples, and Palm Beach County have seen these resignations. The officials say they’re quitting because they feel the law looks too closely into their lives and acts as if the state’s control is too much.

SB 774 not only asks for more financial info but also hikes up the top fine for breaking ethics rules. The max fine has doubled, going from $10,000 to $20,0002. This shows the state is serious about checking on officials and making sure the government is clear and honest.

“Transparency has come with entrance into Florida politics. I quite frankly question what they want to hide from their voters if they resign because this is required.” – State Rep. Spencer Roach, R-North Fort Myers

Even though SB 774 has met with some pushback, it’s clear it’s meant to build more trust in Florida’s elected leaders. It does this by demanding they share more about their money. As we get nearer to the law starting, we’ll see how many more officials might choose to leave rather than go along with the new openness rules.

Changes to Pretrial Release and Detention in Florida

Florida’s criminal justice system has seen big changes thanks to House Bill 1627. It was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2023’s session3. Starting Jan. 1, 2024, the law will switch up how Florida handles pretrial release and detention.

Provisions of HB 1627

HB 1627 tells the Florida Supreme Court to make a bail schedule for the whole state. Before, each of Florida’s regions set their own bail rules3. Now, lower courts can’t lower bail below these guidelines but can raise it if needed3.

Restrictions on Pretrial Release Based on Criminal History

HB 1627 makes it harder to get released before a trial if you have past crimes. This includes not letting people out before their first court hearing if they’ve done serious crimes.

“The passage of HB 1627 represents a significant step towards ensuring public safety and holding repeat offenders accountable for their actions.” – Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody

Statewide Bond Schedule Requirements

With a statewide bail guide, the aim is to be fair to everyone. But, some worry this might mean more people stay in jail before their trial. This could be especially hard on those without much money.

Offense Category Previous Bond Range New Statewide Bond Schedule
Capital Felony $50,000 – No Bond No Bond
Life Felony $25,000 – $100,000 $100,000
First-Degree Felony $10,000 – $50,000 $50,000
Second-Degree Felony $5,000 – $25,000 $25,000

It’s very important to watch how these changes affect safety, rights, and justice for all in Florida.

Expansion of Florida’s Move Over Law

Florida’s Move Over Law is getting a big update in 2024. Its goal is to make the road safer for people working on the roadside and for those in disabled vehicles. This new rule will ask drivers to switch into the next lane when they see disabled vehicles with their lights flashing. If changing lanes isn’t safe, then drivers must slow down a lot instead.

This change comes due to some shocking facts. For tow truck drivers, the risk is really high. They face a much higher chance of dying on the job compared to other work fields, with almost 43 deaths per 100,0004. Sadly, a tow truck driver dies nearly every six days4.

Between the years 2016 and 2020, nearly 350 people every year were hit and killed while near disabled vehicles on the roadside4. This shows just how important the Move Over Law is for keeping these people safe.

“We’re working in a tight area off the side of the road with traffic going by you at 50, 60, 80 miles an hour plus. People don’t move over, it’s dangerous for the workers that are out there doing their job.” – Eddie Evans, owner of Crash Recovery & Towing

Breaking this new law could lead to a ticket and a fine up to $158. If you don’t switch lanes or slow down for a disabled vehicle with their lights on or using flares, you could get in trouble4. The idea is to make people follow the law closely and put safety first for everyone on Florida’s roads.

But even with these rules, some drivers still forget to move over. This puts tow truck drivers and others at risk4. Companies like Crash Recovery & Towing stay super busy, handling up to 80 calls a day. Each truck might respond to around 40 calls4.

For everyone in Florida, it’s important to pay attention, slow down, and change lanes when you see disabled vehicles. Following these simple rules can help reduce deaths on the roadside. Let’s work together to keep all those helping others on the roads safe.

Florida Kidcare Program Eligibility Expansion

Starting in 2024, the Florida Kidcare Program will offer health insurance to more children. It’s for those from low-income families. Florida aims to cover more kids because many are without insurance. In fact, Florida has one of the highest uninsured child rates in the U.S5. This program began in 1998 after a federal program, CHIP, was launched in 19976.

Increased Household Income Limit

More children can now get coverage. If their family makes up to three times the federal poverty level, they’re eligible. This is a big jump from the earlier limit of twice the FPL76. Around 42,000 kids who are currently uninsured might get covered thanks to this change7. When it comes to getting Florida KidCare, your age and how much your family earns compared to the FPL are what counts6.

Parents will get to choose from three to six different premium levels, based on their income. The monthly costs will range from $17 to $170. But, paying any premium, even if it’s small like $1 to $5, can be tough. This could make some families skip going to the doctor7.

Implementation Timeline

The changes were supposed to start working by April 2024 because the law was made in June 20236. But, there’s been a hold-up. The KidCare Expansion won’t be up and running until after April 2024 due to a late application7.

Florida expects the expansion to cost $90 million more the first year. They think they’ll get $23 million back from premiums. The U.S. government will help pay 70 percent of these extra costs5.

Florida Kidcare Partner Programs Services Provided
Medicaid for Children Doctor visits, surgeries, check-ups, immunizations, dental and vision care, prescriptions, hospital stays, behavioral health, and emergencies
MediKids Program
Children’s Medical Services (CMS)
Florida Healthy Kids Program

State Park Campsite Reservation Priority for Florida Residents

Great news for Florida outdoor enthusiasts! This year, Florida residents get first dibs on campsite reservations. They now can book spots in Florida’s stunning state parks a month before other visitors.

This change gives Floridians a big advantage. They can plan their trips earlier. And they get to enjoy top camping spots in the state first.

Florida residents can book campsites or cabins 11 months in advance. Non-residents can only reserve up to 10 months early8. This additional month makes a big difference for local outdoor lovers.

Campsites go for $16 to $42 a night, and cabins for $30 to $1608. Some Florida residents, like seniors or those with disabilities, get a 50% off8. Remember, there’s a $6.70 reservation fee, and a $7 utility fee for certain accommodations8.

To be fair to all, the longest stay is 14 nights during busy times. The most you can stay is 28 nights continuously in one park8. Over a six months period, campers can spend up to 56 nights in a single park. Cabins need a two-night minimum stay and three days off after 14 nights8.

Each campsite holds up to eight people. Cabins welcome either four or six guests8. Pets are okay in some camping areas. But they’re not allowed on beaches or inside cabins8. And, you can’t change reservations if they’re set to leave after the booking window for 18 days8. New spots open every day at 8 a.m. Eastern time8.

From sleeping under the open sky, parking an RV in a picturesque spot, to relaxing in a cabin, there’s plenty to choose from in Florida’s state parks. This new system lets Florida residents prepare their outdoor adventures early. They’re guaranteed the best sites first.

New State laws for 2024

In 2024, the United States will see many new state laws. These laws cover everything from owning guns to how much we earn at work. They also influence the amount of leave we get and the privacy of our personal information. We’ll take a closer look at how these new laws might affect everyone.

Gun Ownership Regulations

In several states, the rules around owning guns are changing. For instance, California will ban carrying guns in most public places to make people safer9. Minnesota now allows family and police to ask a court to take away guns from someone who could be dangerous9. Colorado has joined in too, saying no to “ghost guns” that escape background checks9.

Minimum Wage Increases

Wages are going up in many places to help workers and fight income inequality. Over 20 states raised their minimum wage on January 1. Some, like Maryland and California, now pay more than $15 an hour9. This is setting a better example for fair pay everywhere9.

Minimum wage increases in various states for 2024

Worker Leave Policies

More time off is coming in 2024 to help with work-life balance. Many states are adding to the sick leave and paid time off workers get9. This means people can take care of their personal lives while keeping work healthy too9.

Consumer Privacy Protections

States are also working to protect our information online. Utah now lets people find out what data is collected about them and have it deleted9. Other places, like Florida and Oregon, have their own laws about personal information10. These laws help keep our data safe from misuse10.

State Consumer Privacy Law Key Provisions
Florida Florida Digital Bill of Rights (FDBOR) Applies to data controllers with annual gross revenue over $1 billion
Oregon Oregon Consumer Data Privacy Act (OCPA) Applies to entities controlling or processing personal information of at least 100,000 Oregon residents
Montana Montana Consumer Data Privacy Act (MCDPA) Applies to businesses handling personal information of 50,000 or more residents

It’s important for all of us to keep up with the new state laws of 2024. By knowing and following these laws, we can help make our society safer, more fair, and private.

Persons with Disabilities Registry in Florida

Florida has passed laws (House Bill 1275 and House Bill 1277) that start on January 1, 202411. These laws create a statewide registry for Persons with Disabilities. This registry will give police important information. It’s all about making interactions between officers and individuals with disabilities safer.

Purpose and Benefits of the Registry

This registry’s main goal is to inform law enforcement about a person’s disabilities. This information can prevent misunderstandings that might lead to danger. It helps officers know how to approach and help someone, making sure everyone stays safe.

In some Florida counties, like Lake and Seminole, they’ve already started similar programs11. For example, they use Smart911 and bracelets for certain conditions. The new statewide registry will expand these helpful programs to everyone in Florida.

Uniform Standards for Registry Creation

House Bill 1275 sets up rules for the disability registry. To join, you must have a diagnosis from a doctor. Legal guardians can sign up care dependents too11. The registry will collect personal information and details about the disability for law enforcement to use11.

If the information needs updating or changing, agencies must do this within 5 days of being told. This rule keeps the registry current and accurate.

Public Records Exemptions for Enrollee Information

House Bill 1277 understands the privacy needs of the registry’s members. It makes all registry records and personal information off-limits to the public11. First responders can use the information, but others cannot ask for it11. This keeps the information safe and private.

The start of the Persons with Disabilities registry in Florida is a big step. It makes interactions between police and those with disabilities understanding and safe. This new system could make a big difference, helping both communities and police officers.

Lactation Space Requirements in Florida Courthouses

A new law in Florida makes courthouses more breastfeeding-friendly. It mandates clean, private spaces for lactating moms. This law, SB 144, states that all Florida courthouses should have these areas by Jan. 1, 202412. It gained strong support from both sides of the Legislature in March12.

Lactation rooms have to meet strict standards for a good breastfeeding environment. They can’t be in restrooms. And they must be private, kept clean, secure from others, and health-promoting.

Money for these spaces’ building or setup can be private or public12. But, if adding these rooms means costly new construction, courthouses might not have to comply12.

This law mirrors the federal PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act12. Groups like the National Association for Women and the Democratic Women’s Club back it. The National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice also supports12.

“This bill is a step in the right direction to support breastfeeding mothers and ensure they have access to clean, private spaces to express milk or nurse their babies while visiting Florida courthouses.”

This law goes beyond letting mothers breastfeed in many places. Now, Florida is taking steps to specially welcome breastfeeding moms at courthouses. It shows Florida’s bid for a friendlier, more welcoming atmosphere for mothers and their babies.

Changes to Child Protective Investigative Services in Florida

A new law, House Bill 7061, is changing how child protective investigations work in Florida. This law will have seven counties moving their investigative duties from the sheriffs’ offices back to the Department of Children and Families (DCF)13.

Transfer of Responsibilities from Sheriffs to Department of Children and Families

In 60 of Florida’s 67 counties, the DCF already handles child protective investigations. The remaining seven counties use their sheriff’s offices for these duties. But, HB 7061 will require these seven counties to move their child protective investigation tasks to the DCF13.

Affected Counties

The change impacts these seven counties:

  • Broward
  • Hillsborough
  • Manatee
  • Pasco
  • Pinellas
  • Seminole
  • Walton

Implementation Deadline

The deadline for this transition is December 31, 202313. By then, the DCF will handle all child protective investigations in these seven counties. This will create a consistent approach across Florida.

To make the transition smooth, employees dealing with child protective services in the sheriff’s offices will get a chance to move to the DCF. This step from HB 7061 is to keep skilled workers and make the changeover less disruptive13.

Bringing child protective investigations under the DCF will likely make the system more effective, reliable, and accountable in protecting Florida’s children.

As Florida gets ready for these changes, the DCF and the affected sheriff’s offices must work closely. This teamwork is crucial for a smooth handover, focusing on training, communication, and resource sharing. Keeping children safe remains the main goal during this shift.

Business Compliance with New State Laws

In 2024, businesses in the United States will face new state laws and rules. They range from ESG disclosures to how pharmacies are staffed. Companies need to keep up and make changes to follow these new laws. Let’s look at the big changes coming for businesses this year.

ESG Disclosure Requirements

Businesses must now share more about their Environmental, Social, and Governance actions. This is because more people, both investors and consumers, want to know. For example, a new California law starting January 1, 2024, tells companies to show their math if they say they’re “net zero” or “carbon neutral.”

Also, eleven states have made new rules on protecting consumer data, with five starting in 202314. States like California and Virginia already have these laws. Others, like Florida and Texas, will see new privacy rules in 2024. Companies in these states must check their data policies to make sure they comply with these new laws.

Pharmacy Staffing Rules in California

On January 1, 2024, California started new pharmacy staffing rules. Now, pharmacies must have a dedicated clerk or pharmacy technician for certain tasks. This is to ensure better patient care and reduce the pharmacists’ workload. However, it might mean higher staffing costs for pharmacies in California.

Baby Food Testing Regulations

Starting in 2024, baby food manufacturers in California will need to follow new testing rules. They have to test their products each month for heavy metals. This is because of worries about the health risks these metals pose to babies and young kids.

Crypto Kiosk Restrictions in California

California is putting limits on crypto kiosks. These machines will have a $1,000 daily cash limit for both dispensing and receiving. They also must offer receipts to customers. These rules are to fight against illegal things like money laundering with cryptocurrencies.

“Businesses must stay vigilant and proactive in adapting to the ever-changing regulatory landscape to avoid penalties and maintain consumer trust.”

Businesses also have to deal with other changes, like increasing minimum wages in some states. States including California are upping their minimum wages to $20 by April 1, 2024. For healthcare workers, the pay will be even higher, increasing to $25 per hour after a new law in October 2023. Safety rules for businesses are also getting stricter. OSHA and State Plans are stepping up with more enforcement of safety standards.

To keep up with these varied changes, companies need to focus on compliance management. They should invest in staying updated with new laws and adjust their actions as needed. This way, they can avoid fines, keep customers happy, and do well even with strict rules.

Conclusion

Approaching the middle of 2024, many state law reforms and revised legal frameworks are about to change things in the U.S. These new upcoming state policies cover a lot of ground. They include topics like reproductive rights, care for transgender people, public official financial rules, and protecting people’s privacy. In the start of 2024, 14 states made abortion completely illegal. Seven states banned abortion early in pregnancy, laws that Roe v. Wade says are not allowed15. Four states also stopped care for transgender individuals under 18 in 2024. Now, about half the states don’t allow this care15.

Looking at state legislative agenda changes, over 50 bills were introduced in 2024 in 28 states. Their aim was to stop comprehensive sex education and reduce access to contraception15. Eight states made it harder to get birth control, particularly for people with less money15. An analysis from Guttmacher showed that more than half of young people paid for their own abortions. The average cost was $499, showing how hard it is for many to get an abortion15.

With lots of state codes revisions happening, it’s key to stay informed and follow the new rules. Being up to date and knowing the impact can help individuals and groups manage the changing legal scene. Some states, like Texas and Kansas, are putting a lot of money into anti-abortion centers. Although, Iowa went the other way, stopping the need for those centers to be clear about where their funding comes from15. As the year goes on, it’s crucial for people and businesses to pay attention to what’s happening in their states. This is vital to make sure their opinions are considered and their rights are kept safe during this big change.

FAQ

What are some of the most significant new state laws taking effect in 2024?

Many important laws are coming in 2024. Notable among them are changes for Florida’s city officials’ financial disclosures. This includes Florida’s Move Over Law expansion. And more kids will be covered under Florida Kidcare. Gun laws, wages, worker leave, and privacy rights will also see updates in several states.

What does Florida’s SB 774 require of elected city officials?

As of Jan. 1, 2024, Florida’s SB 774 asks city leaders to provide full financial details. This means they will need to disclose where their money comes from, what they owe, and their total wealth. They must also share their federal tax returns.

How does Florida’s HB 1627 affect pretrial release for those accused of crimes?

Florida’s HB 1627 changes pretrial release rules. Now, if you’re accused of serious crimes, you can’t be released before your first court appearance. This rule applies to several felony types and is based on your criminal past.

What changes are being made to Florida’s Move Over Law in 2024?

The Move Over Law in Florida will need drivers to pay more attention in 2024. Now, it’s not just about police cars. Drivers must also watch out for broken-down cars with their flashers on. If you see any vehicles stopped with people inside, you must either change lanes or slow down.

How is the Florida Kidcare Program eligibility changing in 2024?

The Florida Kidcare Program will help more families in 2024. More families can apply for help with their kids’ medical bills. Now, a family’s income can be up to 300% of the poverty level to qualify.

What advantages will Florida residents have when booking state park campsites in 2024?

Florida residents will get a head start in 2024. They can book state park spots one month before others. This means they can reserve places 11 months in advance. Nonresidents will still have to wait until 10 months before their desired date.

What is the purpose of Florida’s new Persons with Disabilities registry?

The HB 1275 law wants to make sure police treat people with disabilities fairly. It creates a registry for those with certain conditions. This information helps officers understand and better interact with these individuals.

What new requirements will businesses face in California regarding carbon offsets and product marketing?

From Jan. 1, 2024, businesses telling about their green efforts must do so honestly in California. This means businesses marketing as “net zero” or “carbon neutral” will have to explain how they reached that. It’s to ensure their eco-claims are real and clear.

Source Links

More Articles

  1. New State Laws on Hot-Button Issues Take Effect Today – https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/01/us/new-state-laws-2024.html
  2. 2023 Bill Summaries – The Florida Senate – https://www.flsenate.gov/Committees/billsummaries/2023/html/3185
  3. Newly enacted laws upend Florida’s criminal justice system – The Independent Florida Alligator – https://www.alligator.org/article/2024/01/newly-enacted-laws-upend-floridas-criminal-justice-system
  4. Changes to Florida’s ‘Move Over’ law take effect Monday – https://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2024/01/01/florida-move-over-law-changes
  5. A tale of two states: Arizona and Florida diverge on expanding kids’ health insurance – https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2024/06/20/chip-childrens-health-insurance-arizona-florida/
  6. Microsoft Word – DRAFT AHCA Section 1115 XXI Application_revised draft final_clean – https://ahca.myflorida.com/content/download/23900/file/Children’s Health Insurance Program Eligibility Extension Request.pdf
  7. More Children Eligible for Florida’s KidCare Program with Less Paperwork – https://www.floridapolicy.org/posts/more-children-eligible-for-floridas-kidcare-program-with-less-paperwork
  8. Reservation Information – https://www.floridastateparks.org/reservation-information
  9. New state laws for 2024 impact guns, pornography, taxes and even fuzzy dice – https://apnews.com/article/new-state-laws-guns-pornography-fuzzy-dice-86da1fccd5717e9ec234863bf1f9f037
  10. Four New State Consumer Privacy Laws Are Slated to Take Effect in 2024 – https://www.pillsburylaw.com/en/news-and-insights/consumer-privacy-laws-united-states-2024.html
  11. New rules on disability registries for law enforcement begin Jan. 1 – https://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2023/12/28/law-enforcement-agencies-to-face-new-rules-on-disability-registries
  12. Gov. DeSantis signs bill requiring lactation spaces in courthouses – https://floridapolitics.com/archives/612934-gov-desantis-signs-bill-requiring-lactation-spaces-in-courthouses/
  13. New Florida laws that go into effect on January 1, 2024 – https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/new-florida-laws-that-take-effect-january-2024
  14. Regulatory Issues & Challenges Facing Businesses in 2024 – https://www.paychex.com/articles/compliance/top-regulatory-issues
  15. Midyear 2024 State Policy Trends: Many US States Attack Reproductive Health Care, as Other States Fight Back – https://www.guttmacher.org/2024/06/midyear-2024-state-policy-trends-many-us-states-attack-reproductive-health-care-other
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Jack Mollho - Law Enforcement
Jack Mollho is a Journalist for Network World News, he has been in law enforcement for 32 years, he spent 20 years at the Sheriff's Office at Rank Lieutenant. He was with Local PD as a Sargent for another 12 years. Has studied, Law, Law Enforcement, and Journalism.

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