Multiple States Enact Major July 1 Laws on Crime, Safety, Guns, Roads

Several states in the U.S. and regions internationally are implementing new laws and regulations starting July 1, 2025, affecting a range of areas from criminal law to road safety and consumer protections. Indiana has standardized police eyewitness identification procedures to improve fairness in criminal lineups, including prohibiting suspects identified solely by facial recognition technology. South Dakota enacted laws banning eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipelines, restricting minors' access to obscene materials, and allowing concealed carry on college campuses for eligible individuals. California introduced consumer-friendly subscription cancellation rules, regulations to combat the sale of stolen goods online, and transparency requirements for short-term rental fees. Virginia now requires all vehicle passengers to wear seat belts, with increased fines for violations. Internationally, Australian states are rolling out AI-powered cameras to detect mobile phone use while driving, raising penalties for seatbelt violations, and imposing new speed limits and fines, alongside changes to road rules for passing emergency vehicles.