State Laws in 2026: Addressing AI, Health Care Costs, and Voting Rights
As the new year approaches, various state laws will come into effect across the country, addressing issues such as the use of artificial intelligence in health care and elections, paid family and medical leave, and the rising costs of medical insurance. Some states are working to mitigate the impact of increased health care premiums as Affordable Care Act tax subsidies expire. Additionally, stricter voting laws are being implemented in anticipation of the upcoming midterm elections.
In 2026, thirty-eight states have passed legislation to address the rapid growth of artificial intelligence, focusing on preventing its misuse in elections and regulating the dissemination of medical information. Despite President Donald Trump's executive order seeking to limit state regulations on AI, states continue to prioritize this issue. Several states have taken action on deepfakes in elections and AI in medical settings, with California and Oregon passing laws to protect patients from misleading interactions with AI programs.
Deepfakes, which involve digitally altered images, videos, or audio to create false representations, have been used to manipulate elections. While Congress has not passed legislation to address deepfake content, some states like Montana and South Dakota have enacted laws requiring disclosures about their use in elections. Paid family and medical leave policies will also take effect in Minnesota, Delaware, and Maine in 2026, providing employees with wage support during medical leaves or caregiving responsibilities.
With the expiration of Obamacare premium subsidies, all 50 states will face rising health care costs in January. Colorado has taken steps to offset these premium hikes by allocating $100 million to its health care exchange. State Rep. Kyle Brown emphasized the importance of providing financial support to cushion the impact of increased premiums on Colorado residents. The lack of federal action on extending subsidies has prompted states to take independent measures to address rising health care costs.
In the past year, 20 states have passed 37 bills to restrict voting access and elections, while 23 states have passed 51 bills to enhance voting and election processes. This legislative trend reflects the ongoing debate over voting rights and access across the country. As states navigate the implementation of new laws in 2026, issues related to health care, elections, and artificial intelligence are expected to remain at the forefront of public discourse.
In conclusion, the new state laws coming into effect in 2026 reflect a diverse range of policy priorities, from addressing the challenges of artificial intelligence and health care costs to enhancing voting rights and access. States are taking proactive measures to protect their residents and ensure fair and transparent governance in the face of evolving societal and technological changes.