Here’s when all CA schools must limit students’ smartphone use

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KRON) — Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new law on Monday requiring all school districts, charter schools, and county education offices in California to establish policies that limit or ban smartphone use by students by July 1, 2026.

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The legislation, Assembly Bill 3216, known as the "Phone-Free School Act," is backed by bipartisan support and aims to improve students' mental health, social well-being, and academic performance.

A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed that 72% of high school and middle school teachers see cell phone distractions as a major problem in the classroom.

"We know that excessive smartphone use increases anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues – but we have the power to intervene. 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."

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that reducing phone use in schools is key to minimizing distractions and creating deeper, in-person connections.