2025 Laws

 As the calendar moves forward, a series of new state laws will go into effect across Ohio in 2025, impacting schools, workplaces, and communities. From minimum wage adjustments to changes in education policy, these measures are expected to touch the lives of families in Crooksville and throughout Perry County.

Minimum Wage Increase

Ohio’s hourly minimum wage rose on January 1. Non-tipped employees now earn $10.70 per hour, while tipped employees earn $5.35 per hour. The change affects many part-time and entry-level workers in the area.

Religious Expression Days in Schools

Also effective January 1, the Religious Expression Days Act gives students up to three excused absences each year for religious observances. Schools may require a parent’s note but cannot question a student’s faith practice.

New School Requirements

Several education-related laws are rolling out this year.

• On February 25, the so-called Protect All Students Act takes effect, requiring bathrooms, locker rooms, and overnight accommodations in Ohio schools to be based on students’ sex assigned at birth.

• By July 1, all public school boards must adopt a cell phone use policy for classrooms, aiming to limit distractions while still allowing flexibility for emergencies.

Parental Notification Law

On April 9, House Bill 8 — known as the Parents’ Bill of Rights — will require schools to notify parents of significant changes in a child’s health or identity, and also permit students to leave during school hours for religious instruction.

Safety and Criminal Laws

Other changes coming this spring include:

• Braden’s Law, making sexual extortion a felony.

• Liv’s Law, which increases penalties for operating a vehicle under the influence.

• The end of driver’s license suspensions for debt-related reasons.

Higher Education Overhaul

On June 27, Senate Bill 1, known as the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act, takes effect. It eliminates diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at public universities, prohibits faculty strikes, and limits some institutional policies.

Labor and Business Notice Requirements

Starting September 29, Ohio will implement a “mini-WARN” law, requiring employers to provide additional notice for mass layoffs or plant closures beyond federal standards.

Looking Ahead

Several other bills remain under debate at the Ohio Statehouse, including proposals addressing abortion laws, cabaret and performance regulations, and expanded criminal statutes. While not yet law, they remain topics of close watch for 2025.

For Crooksville residents, these changes may affect daily life in schools, workplaces, and the wider community. Local officials are encouraging residents to stay informed as these new laws roll out.