What are some essential laws that should exist to improve society?

**Compulsory Voting**: In countries like Australia and Belgium, voting is mandatory.

This significantly increases voter turnout and ensures that election results are more representative of the population's views, helping to maintain a healthier democracy.

**Universal Basic Income (UBI)**: Some countries, like Finland, have experimented with UBI, providing all citizens with a regular, unconditional payment.

This has been shown to reduce poverty and improve mental well-being, suggesting that a similar approach could address income inequality in the US

**Right to Disconnect**: France has implemented laws allowing employees to disengage from work-related communications after hours.

This could lead to improved work-life balance, reducing burnout and increasing productivity in workplaces.

**Tobacco Control Legislation**: Countries like Australia have strict regulations on tobacco advertising and packaging, including plain packaging.

Research shows that these measures can significantly reduce smoking rates and prevent new smokers, thus improving public health.

**Mental Health Parity Laws**: Several states have enacted laws ensuring that mental health care is covered equally to physical health care.

This can reduce stigma and provide necessary resources for mental health treatment, which has a substantial impact on overall societal well-being.

**Paid Family Leave**: Countries with paid family leave policies, like Sweden, see better health outcomes for children and lower maternal mortality rates.

Ensuring paid leave for parents in the US could lead to healthier families and potentially lower healthcare costs long term.

**Urban Agriculture Initiatives**: Cities like Detroit have embraced urban farming, allowing residents to grow food in vacant lots.

This not only improves food security but also fosters community relations and reduces urban heat.

**Minimum Income Policies**: Some regions have tested minimum income schemes providing financial support regardless of employment status.

This could alleviate poverty, increase spending in local economies, and contribute to social stability.

**Extended Voting Procedures**: Countries like Canada offer multiple ways to vote, including mail-in ballots and advanced voting days.

Implementing similar options in the US could lead to increased participation and a more engaged electorate.

**Strong Workplace Protections**: The laws requiring transparent salaries and anti-retaliation measures in countries like the Netherlands have helped combat workplace discrimination.

Implementing similar protections in the US could promote greater equity in employment.

**Affordable Housing Mandates**: Cities like Vienna enact laws ensuring a substantial portion of new housing is affordable.

This model could alleviate housing crises and reduce homelessness in urban American settings.

**Climate Change Mitigation Laws**: Countries that have enacted comprehensive climate laws mandating reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by specific timelines have seen significant progress in addressing climate change.

The US could benefit from similar robust legislation to ensure sustainable development and environmental protection.

**Data Privacy Regulations**: The European Union’s GDPR sets a standard for data privacy, requiring companies to be transparent about data usage and giving users control over their data.

Implementing stronger data privacy laws in the US could protect citizens from exploitation and enhance trust in digital services.

**Public Access to Technology Initiatives**: In places like South Korea, government-funded programs provide citizens access to free public internet.

Expanding access to technology can bridge the digital divide, improving education and economic opportunities.

**Cycle-Friendly Infrastructure**: The Netherlands has built extensive bike lanes and bike-sharing programs, promoting cycling as a primary mode of transport.

Such infrastructure not only reduces traffic congestion but also decreases pollution and promotes healthier lifestyles.

**Restorative Justice Practices**: Countries like New Zealand emphasize restorative justice over punitive measures, focusing on rehabilitation and reconciliation.

This approach can reduce recidivism rates and promote community healing in the US criminal justice system.

**Public Transportation Accessibility Standards**: When cities invest in accessible public transport systems, it increases mobility for people with disabilities, reducing dependence on personal vehicles and promoting inclusivity.

**Socially Responsible Investment Laws**: Laws in countries like Norway require public pension funds to consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in their investments.

This can enhance corporate accountability and lead to a more sustainable economy.

**National Health Services**: Countries with universal health care models often report better overall health outcomes and lower per capita health care costs.

Adopting a similar system in the US could provide equitable access to medical care for everyone.

**Comprehensive Gun Control Measures**: Countries like Japan have stringent gun laws resulting in significantly lower gun-related violence.

Implementing similar safety regulations could contribute to reduced gun violence in urban and rural areas in the US