As the new year approaches, residents of the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia regions will face significant legal changes, with several new laws set to take effect on January 1, 2025. From traffic regulations to healthcare coverage, here’s an overview of what you can expect in the coming year.
D.C. Laws
Right Turns at Selected Intersections
The D.C. Council has passed a new law that will prohibit right turns on red lights at specific intersections. The Department of Transportation (DDOT) will continue to enforce this measure at selected locations, which will be publicly listed on their website, with a rationale for the choice of intersections. This change is part of the Safer Streets Amendment Act of 2022, aimed at improving road safety across the District.
Cash Payments Now Required
In an effort to support residents who rely on cash transactions, new legislation mandates that D.C. retailers accept cash payments. Businesses can no longer refuse cash, nor can they impose additional charges for cash transactions. Exceptions are made for online purchases, liquor stores, and businesses operating late at night.
Health Care Coverage for Home Visiting Programs
Starting in 2025, D.C. health insurers will be required to cover home visiting services, such as parenting education and visits to pregnant or postpartum individuals, provided through eligible programs. This law aims to increase accessibility to critical services for young children and parents.
Health Care Data Transparency
Insurance entities responsible for approving or denying health care services will be required to make key information, including approvals and appeals, publicly available on their websites. This move seeks to improve transparency and consumer access to important health care data.
Maryland Laws
Increased Fines for Work Zone Speeding
In response to the tragic deaths of six construction workers in a work zone incident in March 2023, Maryland is increasing fines for speeding in work zones. Speeding fines will range from $60 to $500, with penalties doubling if workers are present. This law is part of an expanded effort to protect construction workers in high-risk areas.
Affordable Housing Legislation
Maryland has passed a law aimed at increasing housing affordability. The law requires that new manufactured or modular homes be allowed in areas designated for single-family homes, as long as specific criteria are met. The law also mandates increased zoning flexibility for “qualified projects,” making it easier to build affordable housing across the state.
Opioid Overdose Treatment in Hospitals
Every hospital in Maryland will now be required to have the capability to treat opioid overdoses and provide appropriate follow-up care. This law aims to address the growing opioid crisis by ensuring that hospitals are prepared to handle opioid-related emergencies and provide intervention before discharging patients.
Hearing Aid Coverage for Adults
Maryland residents who require hearing aids will benefit from new coverage requirements, mandating that health insurers cover hearing aids for adults. While there will be a cap on coverage for each device, individuals can opt for more expensive hearing aids at their own cost.
Virginia Laws
Minimum Wage Increase
Virginia’s minimum wage will rise from $12.00 to $12.41 per hour in 2025. This increase affects all employers covered by the Virginia Minimum Wage Act, benefiting workers across the state.
Ethnic Origin Discrimination Protection
The Virginia Human Rights Act has been amended to include ethnic origin as a protected class, prohibiting discrimination or harassment based on ethnic background. This expansion provides greater workplace and public protections for individuals facing ethnic discrimination.
Data Controllers Transparency
Virginia is introducing new regulations requiring data controllers to limit data collection to only what is necessary for the context in which it is collected. The law also mandates that consumer data, including precise geolocation, can only be used for targeted ads or shared with third parties with explicit consent, ensuring better protection of personal information.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Coverage
Health insurers in Virginia will be required to cover colorectal cancer screenings without deductibles or out-of-pocket expenses. This includes follow-up colonoscopies after non-invasive screening tests, aiming to make cancer detection more accessible and affordable for residents.
Preelection Withdrawal Procedure
In an effort to streamline elections, Virginia has enacted a law stating that if a candidate withdraws from a race less than 44 days before the primary election, leaving only one candidate, the unopposed candidate will automatically become the nominee, and the primary election will be canceled.
With these new laws taking effect on January 1, 2025, residents of D.C., Maryland, and Virginia should be prepared for important changes in areas ranging from traffic regulations to healthcare and labor policies. Make sure to stay informed about how these laws may impact your daily life.
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