**Right to Repair Act**
Starting today, Minnesota’s Right to Repair Act makes it easier and cheaper for consumers to fix their electronic devices. The law mandates that manufacturers provide tools, parts, and repair documentation, similar to the auto industry. This applies to all electronic devices sold or used after January 1, 2024. However, manufacturers are not required to release trade secrets or allow modifications of their products.
**Ban on Non-Compete Clauses**
Non-compete clauses are now prohibited in Minnesota, aiming to promote fair competition. Organizations, including Homeowners Associations, must notify employees about the new law, and existing non-compete agreements will be void.
**Packaging Waste Reduction**
The Packaging Waste and Cost Reduction Act takes effect, requiring product producers to pay annual fees based on the amount of packaging waste they generate. This law aims to encourage redesign, reuse, recycling, and composting of packaging materials.
**Clean Water Initiative**
A new law allocates $2.8 million for nitrate home water treatment systems for households in several counties, including Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona. Priority is given to those with contaminated wells and households below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines.
**Plain Language Driver’s License Exams**
The Department of Public Safety will implement “plain language standards” for written driver’s license exams to make them easier to understand. The revised tests will focus on clear, simplified language to ensure applicants understand the rules of the road.
**Child Online Exploitation Protections**
Looking ahead to July 1, 2025, the Prohibiting Social Media Manipulation Act will protect minors under 14 from being exploited in online content. Children will be limited to appearing in no more than 30% of content creators’ videos and will be entitled to 100% of the profits. Additionally, social media companies will need to provide more transparency and control over algorithms and security settings.
For more information on these new laws, visit the [Minnesota Legislature website](https://www.revisor.mn.gov/laws/).