Cats, guns and ICE: 7 new California laws in 2026

From bans on declawing cats and plastic grocery bags to new anti-discrimination protections for students and cheaper insulin, a raft of new California laws takes effect Jan. 1, with others rolling out through 2026.

The measures survived months of negotiations in the state Legislature and scrutiny from Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has shown a willingness to veto bills he opposes — even with Democrats holding supermajorities. Some proposals drew opposition or support from powerful business and labor interests.