2025 is here! Indeed a new year is a time for new resolutions and goals, but it also means new laws. From higher tolls to higher wages, here are the new laws going into effect across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey.
New laws: Pennsylvania
In Phoenixville, beginning January 1st, 2025, single-use plastic bags are prohibited. Identical to establishments in Philly, stores can sell recyclable paper bags patrons can bring their own reusable bag.
Next, all state-regulated health plans, including Medicaid, will now cover biomarker testing for Cancer. The American Cancer Society calls this new law “a game-changer.”
Beginning October 30th, 2025, first responders diagnosed with PTSD will be eligible for workman’s compensation. The new law removes the burden of proof required to qualify.
Also in Pennsylvania, safe haven laws have expanded. Specifically, urgent cares have now been added to the list -alongside hospital, police stations, and EMS stations- where a parent can drop off a newborn baby up to 28 days without penalty.
Then, new Medicaid coverage will allow doulas to be reimbursed for providing child birthing education services, etc.
Lastly, Pennsylvania state lawmakers, judges and top executive branch officials will receive an automatic a pay raise of 3.4% in 2025. The new law impacts more than 1,300 workers, including Gov. Josh Shapiro.
Delaware
In Delaware, the minimum wage is now increased from $13.25 to $15 per hour.
Secondly, effective Jan 1, 2025, would require most private health insurance plans, the state employee health insurance plan and Delaware’s Medicaid program to cover abortion-related services.
And finally, gun safety legislation expanded School zones where guns are prohibited, now including colleges and universities. However, law enforcement officers and commissioned security guards are exempt from this law.
New Jersey
Effective Jan 1, 2025 the minimum wage in NJ was also increased by $0.36 to $15.49 per hour for most employees.
Another thing increasing -tolls. The average toll on the New Jersey Turnpike will increase 16 cents.
Then, also effective Jan 1, 2025, NJ won’t require teachers to pass a basic skills test as a way of attracting more teachers to the profession.