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Student Wellness and Civic Engagement

Higher education institutions that offer on-campus housing are now required to provide free menstrual hygiene products in student health centers. While the law takes effect July 1, campuses have until August 2028 to fully comply. Additionally, students are now granted excused absences from class if they are engaging in civic activities, such as meeting with lawmakers or offering testimony at hearings.

Alcohol and Community Regulations

In Baltimore County, the "cocktails to go" era is getting a formal update. Businesses with alcohol permits can now apply for permission to sell mixed drinks to carryout customers. These drinks must remain in their original, sealed packaging from the manufacturer with no straws or openings, and they must be purchased alongside food.

Animal and Financial Protections

A new law prohibits the sale of racehorses for the purpose of commercial slaughter. Owners cannot sell or transport a horse if they know, or should reasonably know, that the animal is destined for profit-driven killing. Furthermore, lottery operators are now required to withhold prize money from winners who have outstanding child support obligations or other forms of state debt, provided the winners are notified in advance.

Washington, D.C.: Wage Increases

Workers in the District of Columbia will see a direct benefit on their paychecks starting July 1. The minimum wage is increasing from $17.95 per hour to $18.40 per hour. Tipped workers will also see an increase, with the base wage moving from $10.00 to $10.30 per hour. If a tipped worker does not reach the standard minimum wage through their tips on average, the employer is legally obligated to cover the difference.

These changes represent a significant update to the regulatory environment in the capital region. Whether you are adjusting to new school policies in Maryland, navigating updated traffic laws in Virginia, or benefiting from a raise in D.C., keeping these dates and rules in mind will help you stay compliant and informed.