The new year is bringing with it a variety of new state laws. Hawaii has become the first state to hike its tourist lodging tax specifically to help cope with the effects of a changing climate. Utah’s already strict alcohol laws are getting even stricter. People convicted of “extreme driving under the influence” will receive […]
Audio
2026 ushers in a variety of new state laws
The new year is bringing with it a variety of new state laws. Hawaii has become the first state to hike its tourist lodging tax specifically to help cope with the effects of a changing climate. Utah’s already strict alcohol laws are getting even stricter. People convicted of “extreme driving under the influence” will receive a new driver’s license bearing a red stripe on the front alongside the words “No Alcohol Sale.” And Washington’s statewide minimum wage has risen to 17-dollars 13-cents an hour, making it the first state to exceed the 17-dollar threshold.