California New Laws 2026: What Changes January 1

From plastic bag bans to phone-free schools, here's a straightforward guide to the major changes coming to California and Los Angeles this year

As we head into 2026, California and Los Angeles are implementing a wide range of new laws—from a total ban on plastic shopping bags to new protections for gig economy customers and renters.

Here is a simple, direct rundown of the major changes coming your way this year.

Statewide California Laws

Consumer & Retail

Total Plastic Bag Ban (SB 1053): The “reusa…