Texas: Dropping Vehicle Inspections
Texans can rejoice (or lament, depending on your safety perspective) as the state eliminates mandatory safety inspections for noncommercial vehicles, replacing them with a $7.50 fee at registration. However, emission tests remain compulsory in metro areas like Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston to meet federal clean-air standards.
Pennsylvania: Pet Protection in Domestic Abuse Cases
Pennsylvania joins over 35 other states in protecting pets from domestic abusers. Judges can bar defendants from possessing or harming a victim’s pet once a protective order is in place. That law takes effect on January 17, 2025.
Connecticut: Wage Increases, Sick Leave Expansion, and Forced Debt Relief
Connecticut’s minimum wage rises from $15.69 to $16.35, aligning with Public Act No. 19-4 from 2019. Expanded paid sick leave (Public Act No. 24-8) also goes into effect, granting more workers the ability to take paid time off for personal or family illnesses. Meanwhile, Public Act No. 24-77 addresses “compelled debt,” pausing collections for alleged victims of domestic abuse while claims are investigated.
