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The new year will bring changes for taxpayers as a slate of new state laws takes effect across the country, impacting Americans’ wallets through higher minimum wages, a new tourism tax in Hawaii and other cost-of-living measures.

At the same time, a growing number of states are moving to restrict what food can be purchased with SNAP benefits or tighten eligibility requirements, signaling a broader push to rein in welfare spending.

Here’s what you need to know.

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A view of the California state capitol building on National Urban League California Legislative Advocacy Day on March 13, 2024 in Sacramento, California. (Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for National Urban League)

1. Minimum wage increases

More than a dozen states will raise their minimum wages in 2026, with New York increasing its minimum to $17 an hour in New York City, Long Island and Westchester County, and $16 in the rest of the state.

Washington’s statewide minimum wage will rise to $17.13 an hour — the highest in the U.S. — with other states, including Hawaii, Michigan and Nebraska, also boosting wages.

2. Hawaii’s climate tourism fee starts

In Hawaii, lawmakers are raising the state’s Transient Accommodations Tax from 10.25% to 11% starting Jan. 1, as part of a so-called "green fee." The tax applies to operators of hotels and short-term rentals, as well as travel brokers, agents and tour packagers.

State officials said the increase is expected to generate roughly $100 million annually to fund environmental stewardship, climate resilience and sustainable tourism projects.

Several states will restrict sugary drinks to SNAP recipients. (iStock)

3. SNAP bans on soda

Several states, including Indiana, Nebraska and Iowa, will restrict what SNAP recipients can buy with benefits — limiting candy and sugary drinks starting Jan. 1, 2026.