Law new is the term for a wide variety of innovative legal products, services and technologies that are reshaping the ways in which lawyers and clients practice. These include artificial intelligence, virtual reality, robotic process automation, blockchain technology and more. The broader term also refers to startups, companies and subsidiaries of traditional law firms that are augmenting legal services. In this article, we examine what these innovations are and how they are changing the practice of law.
We also look at some of the new laws that are taking effect in the City, State and federal governments. Some of these laws are aimed at protecting tenants’ rights and safety. Others address issues like data breaches, the minimum wage and evictions.
A new law requires NYCHA to notify residents within 24 hours if their water tests show it is unsafe to drink or cook with. Another bill allows tenants to store electric scooters and bicycles in their apartments, so long as the batteries meet certain safety requirements. Another law requires building owners to get the written consent of residents before installing keyless security devices that can unlock doors in a building.
Many of these new laws are the result of consumer advocacy and regulatory efforts. For example, one law makes it easier for consumers to access and use online banking accounts. Another law gives more protection to consumers who are victims of identity theft and enables them to obtain compensation from credit reporting agencies.
The lawmaking branch of the federal government is the Congress, which has two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Creating a new law starts when a senator or representative introduces a bill to create the legislation in either chamber. The bill is then assigned to a committee for research, discussion and change. The bill is then put before the chamber to be voted on. If the bill passes, it is sent to the other chamber for a similar process. If the bill passes in both chambers, it is then signed into law by the President and becomes a federal statute.
A variety of state laws are taking effect in 2024, including a higher minimum wage and a law that lets people direct data brokers to delete their personal information. Other laws include a law that prohibits cities and counties from banning rideshares, a law to allow localities to establish Entertainment Zones where restaurants and bars can sell alcohol during events and a law that lets foster parents take medication for anxiety and depression.
To learn more about laws and rules that DCWP enforces, please visit our Laws of the City (Public Access Portal) and NYC Rules websites. For laws and rules passed by the City Council, visit the City Council Legislation website. For laws passed by other City agencies, visit the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection website. For State law changes, visit the New York State Legislature’s bills and laws page or the New York Office of the Governor’s pressroom page.