As we look ahead to 2026, a wave of new state laws is poised to reshape key aspects of American life, from healthcare access and election integrity to worker protections. These changes, often driven by state-level innovation in the absence of consistent federal action, signal a period of significant transition and potential disruption. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
Navigating the AI Revolution: Elections and Healthcare
Artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving, and states are scrambling to establish guardrails. A staggering 38 states passed legislation in 2025 addressing AI’s impact, particularly concerning its use in elections and healthcare. This surge in activity comes despite a recent executive order from President Trump aiming to streamline AI regulation at the federal level – a move many believe lacks the force of law.
The Rise of Deepfake Concerns
The specter of “deepfakes” – digitally altered images, videos, or audio – looms large over the electoral process. Montana and South Dakota now require disclosures when deepfakes are used in political campaigns, a direct response to incidents like the AI-generated robocall impersonating President Biden during the 2024 New Hampshire primary. Without federal legislation, states are taking the lead in protecting voters from misinformation. The Voting Rights Lab reports a significant increase in states addressing AI-related election concerns.
AI in Healthcare: Protecting Patients
AI is also transforming healthcare, but concerns about patient safety and the blurring lines between human and artificial interaction are growing. California and Oregon have passed laws to prevent AI chatbots from masquerading as licensed healthcare professionals, ensuring patients are aware when they are interacting with a machine rather than a human doctor or nurse. This is crucial as AI tools become increasingly sophisticated and integrated into medical advice and diagnosis.
Expanding Support for Families: Paid Leave Policies
The United States remains an outlier among developed nations in its lack of comprehensive paid family and medical leave. However, momentum is building at the state level. In 2026, Maine, Delaware, and Minnesota will join a growing number of states offering paid leave benefits to employees. These policies allow workers to take time off for medical reasons, childbirth, or to care for family members without sacrificing their income.
A Growing Movement for Worker Well-being
Minnesota State Senator Alice Mann, a physician and advocate for paid leave, emphasizes the human cost of lacking such benefits. “People are left with the choice of taking care of themselves, their family members, their new baby and not getting a paycheck anymore,” she stated. The implementation of these programs often includes public awareness campaigns, like Minnesota’s $5 million initiative, to ensure both employers and employees understand their rights and responsibilities.
While the federal Family and Medical Leave Act provides unpaid leave, it doesn’t address the financial hardship many families face when taking time off work. The expansion of paid leave programs at the state level is a significant step towards addressing this gap.
Healthcare Costs on the Rise: The Expiration of ACA Subsidies
Millions of Americans face potentially higher healthcare premiums in 2026 as Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax subsidies are set to expire. Congress’s failure to extend these subsidies has left states scrambling to mitigate the impact. Colorado, for example, has allocated $100 million to offset premium increases, but the long-term solution remains uncertain.
State-Level Solutions to a National Problem
Without federal intervention, the burden falls on states to protect their residents from soaring healthcare costs. According to KFF, ACA premium payments are likely to more than double in some areas. State Representative Kyle Brown of Colorado described the state’s action as a “bridge” to cushion the blow, acknowledging that a more permanent solution requires federal action.
Voting Rights Under Scrutiny: New Restrictions and Challenges
In 2025, 20 states enacted 37 bills restricting voting access, the highest number since 2021, according to the Voting Rights Lab. These measures include eliminating grace periods for mail-in ballots and tightening voter ID requirements. Simultaneously, 23 states passed 51 bills aimed at improving voting access, the fewest since the organization began tracking such legislation.
The Influence of Federal Policy and Court Cases
Many of these state-level changes appear to be influenced by a Trump executive order pushing for stricter voting regulations. While some aspects of that order were blocked in court, states have moved forward with policies mirroring its intent. Experts are closely watching upcoming Supreme Court cases that could further limit the scope of the Voting Rights Act, potentially leading to increased voter suppression efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will these new laws affect me directly?
A: It depends on your state of residence and your individual circumstances. These laws impact areas like healthcare access, voting rights, and family leave benefits, so it’s important to understand the specific changes in your state.
Q: Where can I find more information about the laws in my state?
A: The National Conference of State Legislatures (https://www.ncsl.org/) and the Voting Rights Lab (https://votingrightslab.org/) are excellent resources.
Q: What can I do to advocate for policies I believe in?
A: Contact your state legislators, participate in local elections, and support organizations working to advance your priorities.
Stay informed about these evolving state laws and their potential impact on your life. The coming years promise to be a period of significant change, and understanding these developments is crucial for navigating the future.
Want to learn more? Explore our other articles on healthcare policy, election law, and worker rights. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and insights.
