A series of new California laws going into effect from July 1 intends to reshape everyday life. The new measures focus on standardizing food labels, limiting smartphone use in classrooms, and enhancing regulation of driverless cars. These changes form part of California’s midyear legislative updates. While these laws apply throughout the state, local school districts and municipal governments have leeway in implementing them.
Consumer Protection and Food Safety
Assembly Bill 660 requires food manufacturers to eliminate confusing expiration terms. It standardizes labels to “Best if Used By” for quality and “Use By” for safety. This move aims to reduce food waste by addressing consumer misinterpretations of labels, initially meant for retailers. Governor Gavin Newsom approved this law to save households money and decrease landfill waste. Additionally, Senate Bill 68, known as the Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act, mandates large restaurant chains disclose key allergens, such as sesame, on menus and digital platforms. Signed by Newsom in 2025, the law addresses concerns from health groups and allergy sufferers.
Education and Student Well-Being
The “Phone-Free Schools Act” (AB 3216) compels public schools from grades 1 through 12 to adopt smartphone restrictions during school hours. Local districts will craft specific rules, so policies will differ. This law, signed by Newsom, seeks to reduce the negative impact of excessive phone use on student mental health. Moreover, SB 760 requires all California schools serving grades 1 to 12 to have at least one gender-neutral restroom, promoting a more inclusive environment for students.
Technology and Transportation
As driverless cars become more prevalent, Senate Bill 1246 introduces stricter oversight. It mandates U.S.-based licensing for remote operators, alongside direct emergency communication protocols between autonomous vehicle companies and first responders.
Housing and Infrastructure
To tackle the state’s housing shortage, Senate Bill 79 facilitates denser residential development near transit hubs. Proposed by Democrat Senator Scott Wiener, the law allows easier conversion of commercial land to housing, promoting urban density in high-demand areas.
Streaming and Broadcasting
Senate Bill 576 extends longstanding federal broadcast standards to streaming platforms. It prohibits services like Netflix and Hulu from airing commercials with higher volumes than their accompanying shows.
Impact on Californians
July 1 signifies a regulatory shift in California, though local execution will determine the laws’ effects. Residents may experience these changes differently, based on their city or school district.