What new laws go into effect in Massachusetts in 2025?
Dec 31, 2024
(WPRI) — On the first day of 2025, there will be new laws kicking in across the country.
Here's a look at what laws take effect in January in Massachusetts.
MORE: What new laws go into effect in Rhode Island in 2025?
Salary range transparency
Public and private employers with 25 or more employees will be required to disclose salary ranges in job postings.
Employers must also give employees the pay range of a position on request or for a promotion or transfer.
Employers who violate the law could face fines or civil citations. Employees will also be protected against any retaliation for asking about salary ranges.
Health care pricing transparency
A bill signed into law by former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker in 2021 will impact the state's health care laws starting in 2025.
Going forward, health care providers must tell patients how much they will have to pay for planned hospital stays, medical procedures and other services based on the patient's specific health insurance plan.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health will be able to fine providers who violate the law $2,500 for each instance.
Parentage equality
In 2025, the state's parentage laws are being updated for the first time in 40 years. The legislation is aimed at protecting the rights of parents who use surrogacy, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and assisted reproduction.
The language of the law will also be updated to be more inclusive to parents in the LGBTQ+ community.
Uber and Lyft benefits
Uber and Lyft drivers will receive more protections, including a minimum wage, guaranteed paid sick leave, and a stipend to buy into the state's paid family and medical leave program.
The changes are a result of a settlement in a lawsuit where the state claimed that Uber and Lyft drivers are employees under the Massachusetts Wage and Hour Laws.
Starting in January 2025, the earnings floor for drivers will increase by 3% annually.
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