California has enacted a new law that requires school districts to establish regulations limiting student smartphone use, following the lead of several other states.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed this legislation in an effort to reduce classroom distractions and address the negative impact of social media on children’s mental health.
Driving the news: While supporters believe that these restrictions will help students focus on academics and social development, critics raise concerns about enforcement challenges and potential hindrance to students’ access during emergencies.
- The California School Boards Association, for example, supports districts that independently implement such restrictions based on their stakeholders’ needs and opposes a statewide mandate.
The big picture: The law mandates school districts to develop smartphone usage rules by July 1, 2026, and update them every five years.
- This legislative move aligns with Newsom’s previous efforts towards limiting student phone access, emphasizing the importance of creating a conducive learning environment for children.
- Asm. Josh Hoover (R–Folsom), along with other lawmakers who are also parents, introduced the bill to address concerns about smartphone addiction among students, highlighting the difficulties associated with breaking this addictive behavior but stressing the benefits of improved focus and social interaction in school settings.
Go deeper: Despite concerns about emergency access, the law provides exceptions for emergencies, ensuring that students can use their phones in critical situations.
- Proponents argue that having phones turned off during crises, such as active shooter incidents, can prevent ringing phones from revealing students’ locations.
Zoom out: Reports from school districts that have already implemented smartphone bans indicate positive outcomes, with students showing increased engagement and improved social interactions.
- Teachers have observed a shift in student behavior, with less focus on recording fights or engaging in online content during school hours.
What they’re saying: “This new law will help students focus on academics, social development, and the world in front of them, not their screens, when they’re in school,” Newsom said in a statement.
