Get ready for some major changes in 2026! As we step into the new year, a wave of state laws is about to take effect, addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time. From the impact of AI and deepfakes to paid leave policies and rising healthcare costs, these laws will shape the future of our country.
The AI Revolution: A Double-Edged Sword
Artificial intelligence is a hot topic, and 38 states have taken action to regulate its use. With AI becoming increasingly commonplace, concerns about its potential misuse are growing. States are stepping up to prevent AI from interfering in elections and to ensure it's used responsibly in healthcare.
But here's where it gets controversial: President Trump's executive order aims to limit state regulations on AI, favoring a national approach. This has left states taking the lead, with some passing laws to prevent AI developers from misleading patients with chatbots, while others are tackling deepfakes in elections.
Deepfakes: Unraveling the Truth
Deepfakes, those digitally altered images, videos, or audio, have caused confusion in elections. Remember the 2024 presidential election, where an AI-generated robocall impersonated President Biden, urging New Hampshire Democrats not to vote? It's a prime example of how deepfakes can manipulate public opinion.
And this is the part most people miss: Congress hasn't passed legislation to prohibit deepfake content during elections. So, states like Montana and South Dakota are taking matters into their own hands, passing laws that require disclosures about deepfakes, which could be a game-changer for the upcoming midterms.
Paid Leave: A Step Towards Equality
Maine, Delaware, and Minnesota are joining the ranks of states offering paid family and medical leave. These policies ensure employees can take time off for medical reasons, childbirth, or caring for family members without losing income.
Senator Alice Mann, a physician and sponsor of Minnesota's paid leave bill, shares a powerful perspective: "I see people struggling every day. They're forced to choose between taking care of themselves or their loved ones and missing paychecks. It's a choice no one should have to make."
The U.S. is the only developed economy without mandated paid parental or medical leave, and one of the few countries without paid sick leave. It's a stark reality, but states like Minnesota are leading the way, with a $5 million public information campaign to educate employers and communities about these new policies.
Obamacare Subsidies: A Looming Crisis
All 50 states are facing rising healthcare costs as Obamacare premium subsidies expire. Congress failed to extend these subsidies, leaving states to pick up the slack. Colorado, for example, dedicated $100 million to offset premium hikes in its healthcare exchange, serving as a "bridge" for 2026.
Representative Kyle Brown, sponsor of the bill, highlights the impact: "People's premiums were expected to triple, but with our bill, they're only doubling. It's still a significant increase, but we're cushioning the blow."
With healthcare prices and the cost of living on the rise, these issues are expected to dominate the 2026 midterms. States are stepping up to make healthcare more affordable and accessible, but it's a challenging road ahead.
Stricter Voting Laws: A Battle for Democracy
In the past year, 20 states passed 37 bills to restrict voting access and elections. This is the highest number since 2021, according to the Voting Rights Lab. Meanwhile, only 23 states passed bills to improve voting and elections, the lowest number since the group started tracking state legislation.
Kansas and North Dakota eliminated grace periods for mail-in ballots, and eight states restricted or eliminated alternatives to photo ID as proof of voter registration. Many of these changes were influenced by Trump's executive order, which pushed for broad election reforms.
Chris Vasquez, director of legislative tracking at the Voting Rights Lab, highlights the impact: "The main story of the year is Trump's executive order. We saw states introduce restrictive proof-of-citizenship legislation, and while most weren't successful, there was more activity on the mail ballot deadline side."
In 2026, Vasquez will be watching state redistricting and a Supreme Court case that could limit the Voting Rights Act. These developments could shape future efforts to protect against voting restrictions.
As we navigate these complex issues, it's clear that states are taking the lead in shaping our future. The impact of these laws will be felt across the country, and it's essential to stay informed and engaged. What are your thoughts on these new laws? Do you think states are doing enough to address these challenges? Let's discuss in the comments!
