Starting in 2025, numerous new laws aimed at improving the lives of California residents will take effect. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom this year, these laws cover a wide range of issues, including tenant rights, public safety, workplace policies, and education.
AB 2347 extends the timeframe for tenants to respond to an eviction notice from 5 to 10 days. This change provides tenants with more time to seek legal counsel or negotiate with landlords.
AB 413 prohibits stopping, standing, or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of a crosswalk. This “daylighting law” is designed to improve visibility for both drivers and pedestrians, reducing accidents.
School staff will no longer be allowed to disclose a student’s sexual orientation or gender identity to anyone, including parents, without the student’s consent.
Additionally, California universities will be banned from giving admission preferences to applicants based on legacy or donor status, effectively eliminating donor-based admissions.
Employers will be restricted from requiring a driver’s license as a job qualification unless driving is essential for the role or commute. Employees will be allowed to use paid sick leave if they are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, even if no arrest, prosecution, or conviction has been made.
The existing restriction on purchasing more than one firearm within 30 days will now also apply to private party transactions.
AB 3209 allows courts to issue restraining orders prohibiting individuals convicted of certain crimes, such as theft or assault, from entering stores where the crimes occurred. This includes surrounding areas like parking lots and extends to all franchise or chain locations of the business.
Octopus farming will be prohibited in California due to concerns about cruelty during the farming process. Businesses that knowingly sell farmed octopus will also face penalties.
California’s anti-discrimination laws will now explicitly include hairstyles, ensuring that individuals cannot be discriminated against for wearing hairstyles associated with their race.
New laws will allow cannabis lounges to sell marijuana products while providing spaces for customers to consume them, dine, and enjoy live performances. Additionally, food delivery services like Uber Eats will be required to send customers the name and photo of the delivery driver for security purposes.
BY YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.youngnam@koreadaily.com]
