Gavin Newsom

Here are some of the most noteworthy 2025 laws that go into effect on Jan. 1.

New California law prevents schools from requiring staff to notify parents if a student identifies as LGBTQ. It's in response to some districts requiring staff to notify parents when students identify as a gender other than what's in their official files.

Californians who purchase a clunker car in 2025 face a confusing year as new lemon law rules take effect and the state Supreme Court limited warranty protections for used vehicles. Lawmakers are revisiting the rules, but consumers could see weaker protections until new laws are passed.

Gavin Newsom began his governorship with promises of decisive action on key issues, homelessness among them. Despite billions of dollars in spending, the population has increased and the crisis remains a weapon for Newsom's opponents.

Growers and cities support the Newsom administration proposal, saying it strikes a balance for uses of Delta water. But environmentalists say the “healthy rivers” rules would actually harm California’s iconic salmon.

Employers and unions are grappling with the opioid crisis, while the state inches toward requiring Narcan in workplaces.

Gov. Gavin Newsom recently moved to Marin County, home to wealthy enclaves that are notorious for resisting his pro-housing policies.

California’s card room industry spent over $3 million targeting four lawmakers as payback for their votes on a gambling bill. Three of the lawmakers lost.

Gov. Newsom wants the California Legislature to prepare for the Trump administration, but its leaders also say they heard voters’ message on lowering the cost of living.

In the first Trump administration, California passed a "Sanctuary State" law that, with some exceptions, prohibited local law enforcement from automatically transferring people to federal immigration authorities. Now the state is readying legal challenges to thwart a second Trump administration's mass deportation plans.