New regulations approved by the D.C. Mayor’s Office took effect on January 1, 2019. These include new laws on quality health care and child care initiatives and updated traffic laws for safer streets.
In health care, the Individual Responsibility Requirement for Affordable Care Act has become effective as of January 1. Under the act, everyone in D.C. is required to receive health insurance coverage in place of the individual responsibility requirement that was revoked on the federal level. Residents can visit dchealthlink.com to sign up for health care in D.C. Enrollment is open through January 31, 2019.
In education, new subsidy rates will be implemented for early childhood centers.
New regulations took effect starting on January 1, 2019 in the transportation sector, as well. The new speed limit is 15 MPH from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. for all roadways adjacent to schools and youth facilities. For roadways near recreation facilities, playgrounds, pools, athletic fields, and senior centers, there will be a similar 15 MPH speed limit between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.
Drivers spotted overtaking a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk for a pedestrian will have to pay a fine of $500. Those speeding 26 MPH in excess of the speed limit will be subjected to additional fines on highways and roadways.
As for environment, single-use plastic straws or stirrers will no longer be allowed in food outlets and businesses. From January 1, 2019, Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) will monitor businesses for any violation.
Starting on July 1, 2019, DOEE will issue official warnings and impose fines on businesses and organizations found serving food with plastic straws and stirrers. You can visit doee.dc.gov/foodserviceware for more information.
To view the full list of adjustments and new regulations effective from Jan 1, 2019, you can take a look at ddot.dc.gov/publication/vision-zero-regulations.