Now that 2018 has finally begun, many new state laws have gone into effect, including in Colorado, Tennessee and Florida. Here are a few of the notable changes you can expect to see around the country:
Minimum Wage
Minimum wage will rise for hourly workers in many states. In Colorado, the pay increases to $10.20 per hour and $7.18 for tipped workers. By 2020, Colorado expects to reach a minimum wage of $12 per hour. In Florida, the minimum wage will rise to $8.25 for regular employees and $5.23 for tipped employees.
Marijuana Restrictions
Retail marijuana stores in Colorado are no longer allowed to sell to each individual customer more than once per day, and only one transaction will be allowed. Consequences will be put into place for retail establishments or employees that knowingly sell to an individual who has gone over this limit.
Sexting
In the midst of the #MeToo movement, sexting punishments for teens have been lessened in Colorado. Teenagers will no longer be charged with sexual exploitation of a child, and they will no longer be required to register as sex offenders.
Healthcare Prices
In Colorado, health care providers will now be required to publicly list prices for common procedures to allow patients more freedom to shop around for a provider that best works for them.