New Virginia Laws Take Effect Today, Including Tougher Fentanyl Penalties And Seat Belt Rules

Several new laws start today across Virginia. People who manufacture or sell fentanyl causing an unintended death now face involuntary manslaughter charges, carrying one to 10 years in prison. Adults must wear seat belts in the back seat or face a $25 fine, though police can’t stop vehicles just for that violation. Restaurants with 20 or more locations must stop using polystyrene takeout containers. Schools are required to ban student cellphone use during class hours. Medicaid will cover limited doula visits for pregnant and postpartum women. The minimum age for paid fantasy sports rises to 21, and local governments can now authorize tiny homes under 400 square feet.