New laws take effect nationwide as 2026 begins

As the new year begins, a wave of new laws is taking effect across the country, impacting everything from social media use to healthcare and education.

(NBC)- As the new year begins, a wave of new laws is taking effect across the country, impacting everything from social media use to healthcare and education.

In Virginia, new restrictions are now in place limiting how much time children can spend on social media. Platforms are required to verify users’ ages and cap screen time for anyone under 16 to one hour per day, per platform.

“They like to be on their tablets and watch TV and stuff,” said Ashley Mullins. “And I notice a difference when I limit that.” While supporters say the law promotes healthier habits, critics argue children will find ways around the restrictions.

Health experts say guardrails are still necessary.

“It’s a digital highway without any seat belts,” said Nancy Hans with the Partnership for Community Wellness. “So we really have to be intentional.”

Other states are also rolling out major policy changes.

In North Carolina, a new law bans the use of state funds for gender transition surgeries and allows lawsuits against medical providers. Texas is eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. In Washington state, lawmakers have raised the minimum wage to more than $17 an hour. In total, 19 states across the country are seeing minimum wage increases starting this year. Delaware is also launching a new program allowing incarcerated mothers to send breast milk to their infants through designated caregivers.

Meanwhile, Illinois has added a new gun safety requirement, mandating that firearm owners report lost or stolen weapons within 48 hours.