The world of law is always changing, with firms looking for ways to improve the way they serve clients. One approach that has become increasingly popular is known as “New Law.” It’s not easy to pin down what exactly New Law means, but it typically refers to a variety of different legal services that differ from traditional practice. This includes alternative service providers, law firm subsidiaries and a variety of other types of companies that offer services that augment traditional legal practices.

When discussing New Law, the most important aspect to keep in mind is that it should be beneficial to clients. This can mean working with underserved communities or creating strategies that help clients avoid costly mistakes. It can also include using technology to streamline processes and offering services that might not otherwise be available.

Laws new

Every year, more than 1,000 laws passed by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom take effect, from a range of issues that impact everyone to some that are highly specific or targeted. While many of the 2023 laws are relatively minor fixes, a few are more significant.

For example, a new law could end the so-called “pink tax” that often sees shampoos for women cost more than very similar products marketed to men. The same law will require stores to disclose salary information on job postings to help workers decide whether a position is worth accepting, a measure that advocates say can close the pay gap for some groups of people.

Another new law would make it illegal for employers to use facial recognition software in background checks without a warrant. The law also requires that the employer give notice to the worker when such technology is used, and gives them the right to request a privacy hearing. The bill is part of a larger package of reforms aimed at strengthening the rights of employees, consumers and workers.

Other new laws include requiring City agencies to provide notice of data breaches that may involve private identifying information and making the definitions of several provisions in the City’s data breach notification law more consistent with State law. The law would also require that the City’s Chief Privacy Officer be notified when a third-party vendor that holds or has access to personal information receives a breach report from a City agency.

Other laws include requiring public accommodations to post signs that tell people with disabilities how to request assistance. The law would also prohibit employers from discriminating against people who use assistive devices. And, it will require the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection to develop a model notice for City agencies and employers that informs them of federal and state student loan forgiveness programs.