There are many new laws that take effect October 1st. Here are some of the important ones.

Drivers can be fined for operating their motor vehicles without removing snow and ice from their car, windshield, windows, and roof. The fines range from $25 to $200 for a non-commercial vehicle and up to a $1,000 for commercial vehicles. Police may issues citations for these as secondary offenses.

A new law will require businesses to accept cash for purchases less than $300.00. As we have moved toward a cashless society, there are still people who use cash and this law will allow them to continue to do so. Some businesses are exempt from the new law and businesses can refuse to accept bills greater than $20.00. There are civil penalties if businesses fail to comply after being given a warning.

Police and law enforcement officers will not be allowed to wear face coverings or other objects which hide their identities. This will apply to ICE agents as well. There will be exceptions for officers with medical conditions and illnesses that require face coverings.

Federal firearms licensees and law enforcement agencies operating a gun buyback program must destroy each firearm and its component parts received through the program. Before the weapons are destroyed, the agency must check to see if the firearms have been lost or stolen or are connected to a crime.

The State Highway Administration will be allowed to identify speed corridors that pose a threat to pedestrians and cyclists. This could lead to the installation of cameras in these locations.

The maximum penalty for stalking has been increased to 10 years in jail and/or a $10,000 fine if the person has an active Protective Order against them or a prior conviction. The State will be required to give notice of its intent to seek the enhanced penalty.

Anyone working with children in a child care facility will be required to undergo a background check. This applies to employees as well as volunteers.

All of these laws take effect on October 1, 2026.