Governor Gavin Newsome | Twitter Website
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 3216, known as the Phone-Free School Act, which mandates that every school district, charter school, and county office of education in California must develop a policy to limit or prohibit smartphone use by July 1, 2026. The legislation was authored by Assemblymembers Josh Hoover, David Alvarez, Josh Lowenthal, and Al Muratsuchi.
"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," said Governor Gavin Newsom.
Jennifer Siebel Newsom emphasized the broader implications of the bill: "Reducing phone use in schools is essential for minimizing digital distractions and making space for stronger and more meaningful in-person connections. AB 3216 isn’t only about classroom instruction; it’s about protecting the mental health and social and emotional well-being of California’s kids."
The move builds on previous efforts such as AB 272 (Muratsuchi), signed into law in 2019 by Governor Newsom. That legislation gave school districts the authority to regulate smartphone use during school hours.
Policies developed under AB 3216 will involve stakeholder participation to address local needs while allowing phone use during emergencies or as permitted by teachers or administrators.
Research indicates a link between excessive smartphone use among youth and increased anxiety and depression. A Pew Research Center survey found significant levels of distraction caused by cell phones among high school (72%) and middle school (33%) teachers. Common Sense Media reported that nearly all students use their phones during the school day for an average of 43 minutes.
Assemblyman Josh Hoover expressed his support: "I appreciate the leadership of Governor Newsom and our bipartisan coalition of legislators that worked together to make the Phone-Free Schools Act a reality. AB 3216 is a major victory for protecting and improving the mental health and academic outcomes of students across California."
Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi added: "California school districts should place limits on student smartphone use on campus during school hours unless approved by teachers or administrators for academic, emergency, or other purposes."
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond highlighted community involvement: "AB 3216 represents an important opportunity to address the mental health of our students by restricting smartphones in schools. I have directly engaged with our students, parents, and educators as we have explored the need for this important change."
This initiative aligns with broader state efforts like Governor Newsom's Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health which aims to enhance access to mental health services for Californians aged 0-25 through initiatives like the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI).
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