"2024 Ushers in Sweeping New U.S. Laws Starting January 1"

As 2024 begins, several new laws are taking effect across the United States. Texas is criminalizing illegal immigration at the state level and banning diversity, equity, and inclusion offices in public colleges. Pennsylvania is reforming its probation system and increasing penalties for retail theft and "porch piracy." Florida is implementing a new bail law with uniform standards. New York and Connecticut are enacting Clean Slate Acts to seal certain criminal records. California is increasing penalties for child sex trafficking, and Illinois is allowing legal action against those who provide alcohol to minors involved in fatal or injurious incidents, as well as banning book bans in publicly funded libraries.