New NYC Laws Coming In 2020: Plastic Bags Ban, Cash Bail Reform

NEW YORK CITY — A slew of new laws slated to take effect in 2020 will change the way New York City residents shop for groceries, apply for jobs and vote.

Here's what you need to know about the changes to city law coming in the year ahead.

Plastic Bag Ban

New York State stores will not be allowed to give out single-use plastic bags starting on March 1 and New York City stores will have to charge 5 cents for every paper bag they use. Plastic bags without handles — such as those that hold bulk items, vegetables and meat — are exempt from the ban, as are restaurants, pharmacies and clothing stores.

Minimum Wage Increases To $15 An Hour

While employees of large companies and fast food workers were granted a $15 minimum wage last December, as of Dec. 31 that minimum will also apply to smaller employers with 10 workers or less.

Cash Bail Reform

New York State will ban cash bail for misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies, with exceptions for crimes such as domestic abuse cases, sex offenses, witness tampering and conspiracy to commit murder. Judges can still set money bail in more serious cases, though they must weigh the defendant's financial resources and other forms of bail such as a bond.

Marijuana Testing Banned

On May 10, New York employers will no longer be able to demand job applicants take a cannabis test. The statute applies to private, nonprofit and government agency employers but excludes construction, commercial drivers and the health and childcare fields, as well as any federal contractor mandated to screen prospective employees for weed.

Teens Can Preregister To Vote
Sixteen- and 17-year-olds can preregister to vote in New York to ensure they'll be eligible on the day of their 18th birthday. The pre-registration law, which was part of that reform package, takes effect Jan. 1.