The BIGGEST NEW LAWS That Are Now In Effect In Utah & Nevada!
UTAH:
Welcome to 2025, Utah! While you’re busy making resolutions you may or may not keep, here are two new laws that are already changing the game. One might make your car look a little cooler, and the other? Let’s just say Big Tech has some explaining to do.
Bye-Bye Front License Plate (S.B. 45)
Let’s start with the one that’s about to make your ride a little sleeker. Starting now, Utah drivers can ditch their front license plates. That’s right—no more ugly brackets ruining your car’s aesthetics!
This law doesn’t just save you from an automotive eyesore; it’s also saving the state a cool $3 million a year. Senator Daniel McCay, the mastermind behind this plate makeover, pointed out that compliance with the old law was already a joke. (Let’s be honest: half of you weren’t putting them on anyway.)
Oh, and there’s more! Instead of juggling two annoying stickers on your plates, you’ll now have one streamlined decal. Fancy, right? The money saved on plates will go toward boosting highway patrol trooper availability. So, fewer plates, more cops—sounds like a fair trade.
Smartphone Smackdown (S.B. 104)
Now for the headline-grabber: the Children’s Device Protection Act. Utah is taking a sledgehammer to Big Tech’s laissez-faire attitude when it comes to kids and smartphones. From now on, any device made after January 1, 2025, must come with an automatic filter for minors, blocking "obscene material."
Here’s how it works: When setting up the device, the user has to input their age. If they’re under 18, the filter kicks in automatically. Parents can tweak the settings with a password, but anyone else messing with it? That’s a crime.
And here’s where it gets juicy: manufacturers like Apple and Samsung are now legally required to comply—or face hefty fines. Thousands of dollars per violation, to be exact. Utah’s Attorney General and even parents can sue if these filters aren’t in place.
NEVADA:
As the clock struck midnight on January 1, 2025, not only did we welcome a new year, but a fresh batch of laws also kicked in across Nevada. From diaper discounts to motorcycle licenses, here’s the rundown on what’s changing—and why you should care.
Out with Subminimum Wages for Disabled Employees
Gone are the days when someone could legally earn pennies per hour just because they have a disability. (Yes, that was a thing.) Thanks to AB259, new contracts in Nevada can no longer include subminimum wages for disabled employees. This is part of a phased effort to eliminate this practice entirely by 2028.
Why does this matter? Because paying someone three cents an hour isn’t just outdated—it’s downright appalling. This law follows a nationwide push to make pay equity a reality, and honestly, it’s about time.
Motorcycle License Mulligans
Ever been caught riding a motorcycle without a proper license? Well, Nevada’s new SB423 gives you a second chance. If you get pulled over without a motorcycle license, you can skip the penalty—provided you take a motorcycle safety course and get your license within nine months.
Think of it as a get-out-of-jail-free card for the two-wheeled rebels among us. The hope here is to make getting licensed easier while promoting safety, but let’s be real—this is also great news for procrastinators.
Diaper Discounts Are Here
Parents, rejoice! Starting this year, diapers are officially exempt from Nevada’s state sales tax, thanks to SB428. After over 68% of voters gave this the green light in November, diapers have joined essentials like food and feminine hygiene products on the tax-free list.
This means more money in your pocket—and fewer tears when you hit the checkout aisle. (Well, at least from your wallet.)
Grounding Chinese Drones
Local governments in Nevada are now banned from buying drones from certain Chinese military companies flagged by the U.S. Department of Defense. While parts of SB11 took effect last year, this ban officially starts now.
Is this relevant to your everyday life? Probably not. But if you’re in the drone-buying business, it’s worth noting which models are no longer welcome.