California Laws Changing July 1: From Pet Insurance to Airbnb Cleaning Fees
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Starting July 1, Californians will see sweeping changes in consumer protections, health coverage, rental disclosures, and public service access, as a slate of new state laws go into effect.
The new legislation addresses a wide range of everyday concerns—from hidden cleaning fees in rental agreements and the fine print of pet insurance policies to improved access to mental health crisis support for students.
Why It Matters
These measures are part of an ambitious legislative agenda championed by Governor Gavin Newsom and approved by the state legislature in Sacramento, aiming to boost transparency and health protections while modernizing court systems and educational support services.
What To Know
One of the most noticeable changes affects short-term rental customers. Under Assembly Bill 2202, platforms like Airbnb must now show all cleaning fees and penalties before a booking is completed. If they don't, they could be fined up to $10,000. The law also targets surprise fees and requires renters to be told about any cleaning tasks expected during their stay.
Pet insurance companies must now also clearly explain why premiums go up. Senate Bill 1217 says insurers have to say if rate hikes are due to a pet's age, location, or other reasons. Policies must also spell out waiting periods, medical exam rules and what conditions aren't covered.
Another major change affects subscription services. Businesses offering streaming, food delivery, or other subscriptions must now let people cancel just as easily as they signed up. Assembly Bill 2863 enforces a "click-to-cancel" rule and requires annual reminders with pricing and cancellation info.
Health insurance in the state is also expanding. Senate Bill 729 requires most plans to cover infertility diagnoses and treatments, including IVF. There are exceptions for religious employers, and public systems like CalPERS won't have to offer the coverage until July 2027. The bill's author, State Senator Caroline Menjivar, has framed it as a win for reproductive rights.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a press conference on February 01, 2023 in Sacramento, California.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a press conference on February 01, 2023 in Sacramento, California.
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The state's 5.8 million schoolchildren will see changes come the start of the new school year. Senate Bill 1063 says middle and high school ID cards must show the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Schools can also add QR codes that link to local mental health support. Mental health advocates say this gives students easier access to help.
There are new rules for students with special needs. Assembly Bill 438 stipulates that schools must start planning for these students' futures when they start high school, not wait until age 16. The goal is to help them better prepare for college or work.
Remote court access, which started during the pandemic, is also being extended. Assembly Bill 170 allows juvenile and civil courts to keep holding virtual hearings through 2027. Courtrooms must meet new tech standards, and judges must report any technical issues during criminal cases.
The CARE Act, which lets people request court-ordered mental health treatment, is also changing. Senate Bill 42 now says courts must inform family members and first responders when cases are delayed, dismissed, or updated. The goal is to keep people better informed.
Finally, minimum wage will go up in several counties and cities across the state.
What Happens Next
Starting July 1, businesses and service providers affected by the changes—including Airbnb, insurance companies, subscription platforms, and school districts—must comply immediately or face fines and legal challenges.
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