From CalMatters
Most of the hundreds of new California laws that are set to take effect on the first day of the new year won’t change your life. They’re adjustments to existing laws and directions to state agencies to follow up on past priorities. But some of them might have a profound effect on you or a loved one. In all, lawmakers passed 917 bills in 2025 and Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed 123 of them. Most of the ones he signed took effect on Jan. 1.
The Signal is publishing a series of stories from CalMatters reporters describing some of the noteworthy new laws taking effect in 2026. This list (below) will be updated as more stories are published over the first week of 2026.
New law requires folic acid in tortillas
New state law expands Newsom’s mental health court
More CSU campuses will automatically admit students
New California laws rewrite car-buying rules
Schools will have to do more to prevent sex abuse under new law
Cities can’t punish outreach workers for helping homeless people
Big Tech blocks legislation on AI data center rules
New law requires working fridge in all apartments
California bans masks for federal officers; court battle expected
Millions gain access to in vitro fertilization under new state law
New California fee targets batteries in PlayStations, power tools and singing cards
California homeowners could qualify for grants for new roofs and fire safety
Scared of artificial intelligence? New law forces makers to disclose disaster plans
