4 Major Law Reforms that Will Affect US People in 2024

As we enter the new year, significant changes occur across the United States. Lawmakers are busy making and modifying rules that could change things. Several laws have passed, and more are on the way; it’s a big deal! These changes cover everything from ensuring workers are treated fairly to making healthcare and education accessible. It’s all about making life better for people all over the country.

So, get ready! The government is working hard to make things better for everyone. These new rules might affect you in ways you never expected, but they aim to make life easier and fairer for us all.

Here’s a look at some of the impactful changes that took effect in 2024:

Raising the Minimum Wage

As of January 1, the minimum wage has seen a boost all over the country. This change brings welcome news for many, but it comes with complexities. Different rates apply for tipped service employees and food workers.

The government promptly launched a public campaign to ensure residents are informed about the new rates. According to the standard policy outlined in the Raise the Wage Act of 2023, the minimum hourly wage increases progressively: it stands at $9.50 in 2024, $11.00 in 2025, $12.50 in 2026, $14.00 in 2027, $15.50 in 2028, and $17.00 in 2029.

Additionally, a significant rule change now categorizes wage theft as larceny. It means employers could face hefty fines and criminal charges for misclassifying employees or miscalculating tip compensation.

WTCHP Program Under Zadroga Act

If you or your loved one are the victims of the 9/11 attack, you should know the recent update about the World Trade Center Health Program of the Zadroga Act. Lawyers at Parker Waichman explained to initiate a claim, registration with the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is mandatory within two years of notification from the Health Program. Also, the physical health condition must be 9/11-related. It ensures the protection of claim-filing rights until 2090.

Suppose you find the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund process hard to understand; you may seek a lawyer’s help. They will assist in understanding all about the program and ensuring expeditious adjudication of fund claims.

The World Trade Center Health Program provides invaluable healthcare benefits, encompassing medical monitoring, treatment, and medication for physical and psychological ailments. It’s crucial to note that this program operates independently from the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), necessitating responders and survivors to initiate a separate claim process to access these vital benefits.

Expanding Support for Victims of Sexual Conduct

New legislation in the country aims to provide more substantial support for survivors of sexual assault and ensure accountability for criminals. The updated legislation broadens the definition of rape in the penal code. It includes additional forms of nonconsensual sexual conduct, empowering prosecutors to pursue justice more effectively.

For instance, the New York government demonstrated a commitment to supporting survivors by enacting the Adult Survivors Act, which allows survivors to seek legal action against their abusers within a specified window.

Authorities are working to modernize reporting systems and improve data accessibility all over the country. Multiple measures have been added to enhance data collection and information-sharing among law enforcement agencies to address domestic violence cases better.

It helps the government to get swifter and more effective responses to incidents of domestic violence, ultimately prioritizing the safety and well-being of survivors.

Tenant Protections for Rent Law Expansion

New laws ensure tenants in New York are better protected, especially regarding water safety and building security. The NYCHA is now required to promptly notify residents about the safety of their water, and unauthorized installation of keyless security devices without residents’ consent is banned.

For renters statewide, the “Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019” brings crucial changes. It limits security deposit charges on new leases and controls rent increases for those in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized apartments. These laws also impact renters with preferential rents and those in manufactured home parks. Every renter in New York needs to understand these protections.

Your past disagreements with a landlord shouldn’t stop you from finding a new place to call home. For instance, if you took legal action against your previous landlord to fix issues, a new landlord can’t refuse to rent to you because of it.

If your landlord wants to take you to court for not paying rent, they first need to give you a written notice, called a “rent demand,” giving you 14 days to pay up. Additionally, they must return your security deposit within 14 days after you move out.

Final Verdict

The government is updating its policies to emphasize the importance of combating the opioid outbreak and ensuring fair legislative infrastructure. As these laws come into effect, they signify a step forward in creating a safer, fairer, and more inclusive for all its residents.