BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — When the clock hit midnight ushering in 2021, a lot of new laws also began.
MINIMUM WAGE:
Minimum wage across the state increased to $12.50 an hour outside of New York City. This is part of the planned minimum wage increases that will happen every December 31st until all areas of New York reach $15 an hour. These increases have been happening since 2016.
PAID FAMILY LEAVE/SICK LEAVE:
Starting January 1st, employees have access to 12-weeks of job protected paid time off to bond with a new child or care for a loved one. There is also mandatory sick leave taking effect for companies up to 99 employees.
AUTO RENEWAL OF SERVICES:
Changes are also coming for the auto renewal of services. Do you forget to cancel a streaming service like Netflix or Hulu? Well, as of February 9th, the company must notify you at least 15-days in advance before auto-renewing service contracts. This applies for yearly and monthly services.
WHAT IS TO COME?
2021 also brings continued interest in the full legalization of marijuana. It is something that, according to (D) Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, the state is considering now more than ever. She said in October that it could help fix some financial issues facing the state.
"As a result of lost revenue, that is absolutely going to be on the table of consideration in the next budget," Hochul said in October of 2020.
