New DMV Laws Effective July 1: Key Changes to Know
As of July 1, 2025, residents of Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia will experience significant legal changes aimed at improving safety, equity, and privacy. From minimum wage increases and stricter seat belt laws to enhanced protections for reproductive health data and new social media regulations, these updates reflect the region’s evolving priorities. Here’s a breakdown of the most impactful laws taking effect across the DMV area.
New Laws in Washington, D.C.
- Minimum Wage Increase: Non-tipped workers will see their hourly wage rise from $17.50 to $17.95. Tipped workers’ base wage increases from $10 to $12, with employers required to cover any shortfall to meet the full minimum wage.
New Laws in Virginia
- Seat Belt Mandate: All adult passengers must wear seat belts in vehicles on public highways, extending the previous requirement for front-seat passengers.
- Cellphone Policies in Schools: School boards must implement policies to restrict disruptive cellphone use, with exceptions for medical needs. Violations won’t result in suspensions or expulsions.
- Social Media Regulations: Platforms must verify users’ ages and limit minors under 16 to one hour of daily use unless overridden by parental consent. Minors involved in content creation must be compensated, with earnings held in trust until adulthood.
- Cocktails-to-Go: The delivery of alcoholic beverages by licensed providers is now permanent, maintaining safety measures.
- Health Data Privacy: Businesses cannot collect, sell, or share reproductive or sexual health information without consent.
- Driver’s License Updates: The DMV will allow non-apparent disabilities to be listed on licenses and launch a program to improve communication between autistic drivers and police officers.
New Laws in Maryland
- Abortion Care Grants: A new program will fund improved access to abortion services, supported by health insurance premium funds.
- GED Exams in Spanish: Maryland will offer GED tests in Spanish and explore additional language options.
- Tenant Rights: Landlords must attach the updated Tenants’ Bill of Rights to all residential leases.
- Revenge Porn Penalties: Sharing explicit images with intent to harm, including computer-generated ones, is punishable by up to two years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine. Victims can also pursue civil action.
- Leaf Blower Ban in Montgomery County: Gas-powered leaf blowers are banned on most properties, with exceptions for schools and state-managed parks. Violators face $500 fines.
- Minimum Wage Increase in Montgomery County: Rates rise to $17.65 for large employers, $16 for mid-sized employers, and $15.50 for small employers. Tipped workers must earn at least the minimum wage when tips are included.
New DMV Laws Effective July 1: Key Changes to Know was originally published on woldcnews.com
