New Year, New Rules: Three Key Laws Taking Effect in New York for 2025

With the new year comes some pretty big changes in New York State, and these new laws are bound to affect workers, drivers, and hotel guests. Here are three of the new laws that will take effect in 2025.

First off, there’s great news for workers. The minimum wage is going up. If you’re in New York City, Westchester, or Long Island, you’ll earn at least $16.50 an hour. The rate bumps up to $15.50 for the rest of the state. It’s all part of an effort to keep up with the rising cost of living and a relief for many folks who’ve been feeling the financial effects.

If you are heading to New York City it may cost you more. If you’re driving into Manhattan at or below 60th Street during peak hours, you’ll have to pay a $9 congestion fee. Trucks will face even steeper charges. The idea is to cut down on traffic jams and reduce pollution in one of the busiest places in the world. While it’s a bold step, not everyone’s thrilled about it.

If you plan on staying in a hotel in New York State, there are changes there too. Now single-use plastic toiletry bottles are being phased out in hotels. Larger hotels with fifty or more rooms now need to switch to refillable dispensers. Smaller places will follow by 2026. It’s all about cutting plastic waste and being kinder to the planet.

Whether you’re working, commuting, or staying overnight, these changes show New York is serious about sustainability, fairness, and a better quality of life for everyone.