5 new California laws that take effect this week
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A new set of laws — ranging from consumer protections to mental health for students — are taking effect in California tomorrow.
The big picture: State lawmakers introduced nearly 5,000 bills in 2024, and Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a little more than 1,000 of them into law, with dozens of those taking effect this week.
The latest: Here are five new laws you should know about:
Insurance coverage for fertility treatments
Under SB 729, large group health insurance plans must cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility and fertility treatments, including three egg retrievals for in vitro fertilization.
Consumer protections for subscription cancellations
AB 2863 requires businesses to obtain a consumer's "affirmative consent" before renewing paid subscriptions.
- Previously, subscriptions continued until explicitly canceled. Now, businesses must secure permission prior to extending subscriptions after free trials or contract periods have ended.
Mental health for students
All California schools serving grades 7–12 must print the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on student ID cards under SB 1063.
- Schools can also add a QR code linking to local mental health resources.
Pet insurance transparency
California's SB 1217 requires pet insurers to disclose coverage exclusions, including pre-existing conditions, hereditary issues and chronic illnesses.
- Insurers must also provide upfront explanations of premium adjustments based on age, claims history or location.
- The law also prohibits waiting periods and vet exams on policy renewals and requires insurers to clearly explain how claim reimbursements are calculated.
Drink lids against date-rape drug spiking
To prevent drink tampering and boost safety, California bars and nightclubs with type 48 licenses must begin providing drink lids upon request, per AB 2375.
- Venues must also clearly display signs notifying customers about lid and drug-testing kit availability.
- Fees for lids are allowed but cannot exceed the cost to provide them.
Minimum wage increases across the Bay Area
Local ordinances mandating wage increases are also taking effect this July.
- San Francisco: $19.18.
- Emeryville: $19.90.
- Alameda: $17.46.
- Berkeley: $19.18.
- Fremont: $17.75.
- Milpitas: $18.20.